In a ground-breaking clinical trial, researchers from the University of Cambridge in the UK have infused blood cells grown in a laboratory into people. The researchers stated that if the trial proves lab-grown blood to be safe and effective, then manufactured artificial blood can revolutionize the treatment options for people with blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and rare blood types.

The clinical study was conducted to determine the lifespan of the lab-grown cells in comparison to infusions of standard red blood cells from the same donor. The researchers claimed that if the clinical trial proves that the manufactured cells can last longer in the body, then patients who regularly need blood may not need transfusions as often. This can help reduce the iron overload caused by frequent blood transfusions, which in turn leads to serious complications.

Dr. Cedric Ghevaert, a professor at the University of Cambridge and NHS Blood and Transplant, stated that if the trial is proven successful, it would mean that patients who require regular long-term blood transfusions will need fewer transfusions in the future.

At present, two people have been transfused with lab-grown red cells. The researchers added that these subjects are being closely monitored and that no untoward side effects have been reported so far. They added that the amount of lab-grown cells infused into patients varies but is around 5-10 ml or about one to two teaspoons.