A remarkable discovery in the world of blood types has emerged, as a 68-year-old woman from Guadeloupe has been identified as the sole person on Earth with a newly recognized blood type. This unique blood type, dubbed “Gwada negative,” is so rare that she is only compatible with herself. Announced on June 25, 2025, by scientists from the French Blood Establishment (EFS), this finding adds to the complexity of human blood categorization, now totaling 48 recognized systems.
- 68-year-old woman has unique blood type
- Only compatible with herself, "Gwada negative"
- Discovered by French Blood Establishment scientists
- First noticed during 2011 pre-surgical tests
- Genome sequencing revealed a PIGZ gene mutation
- Researchers will search for more cases in Guadeloupe
The unusual blood type was first detected in 2011 during routine pre-surgical tests in Paris. However, advanced technology was required to fully understand her blood type and identify any potential matches. It wasn’t until 2019 that researchers sequenced her entire genome, revealing a mutation in the PIGZ gene that influences how proteins connect to red blood cells. With plans to search for others with the Gwada negative blood type, scientists are focusing on Guadeloupe due to the genetic nature of blood groups.
This discovery raises intriguing questions about blood types and genetic diversity. How many more undiscovered blood types exist? What implications could this have for blood transfusions worldwide?
- The “Gwada negative” blood type is the 48th recognized blood group system.
- Researchers aim to identify others with this rare blood type in Guadeloupe.
- Advanced genetic sequencing was crucial in uncovering this unique blood type.
- Only 17 new blood group systems have been discovered since 2012.
As scientists delve deeper into the genetic factors behind blood types, we may uncover more about human diversity. This could lead to improved medical practices and better outcomes for patients worldwide.
