World-first transfusions of lab-grown blood cells in huge boost to NHS amid shortage

The NHS has given two human subjects successful transfusions of lab-made red blood cells in a world-first clinical trial.

The volunteers had no side effects or signs of rejection to the blood, cultured from donated stem cells.

Lab-made cells could revolutionise treatments for people with rare blood types or in need regular transfusions.

And the potential breakthrough comes as the NHS faces unprecedented shortages of blood stocks – with non-urgent ops being cancelled amid a nationwide amber alert.

The RESTORE trial is a joint project by NHS Blood and Transplant, Bristol University, Cambridge University and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

Cedric Ghevaer is professor in transfusion medicine and consultant haematologist the University of Cambridge (PA)

Professor Ashley Toye, of Bristol University, said: “This is a huge stepping stone for manufacturing blood from stem cells.”

RESTORE will now give 10 people two transfusions four months apart – one of standard red cells and one of lab-grown cells, to see which last longer.

As lab-grown cells are fresh, it is hoped they will outlast donated blood. And if this is the case, those requiring blood regularly – such as sickle cell disease patients – may not need to be given it as often.

Professor Cedric Ghevaert, from Cambridge University, said: “If this trial is successful, it will mean patients who currently require regular long-term blood transfusions will need fewer transfusions, transforming their care.”