Scientists in Japan are experimenting with the production of artificial blood, amid shortages of blood and need for safe transfusions.

A clinical trial by Nara Medical University will try to build on a previous 2022 trial on haemoglobin vesicles – small artificial blood cells which were confirmed to be capable of delivering oxygen safely as normal.

Scientists are also working to develop synthetic blood as part of efforts to help support emergency surgery and blood transfusions.

During the trial, 100 to 400 millilitres of artificial blood cells will be administered to complete further tests on its safety.

In the event that no side effects appear, researchers will be able to move onto broader studies with the blood.

Currently, the artificial blood can be stored for up to two years at room temperature- an incredible improvement for donated blood, which now has a shelf life of a month.

Scientists hope that if all goes smoothly with the trial, this medical breakthrough could allow for artificial blood to enter clinical use by 2030.

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Japan’s growing need

Japan has been facing a shrinking population and problems from an ageing society for decades, leading to fewer blood donors.

Dire situations can occur during potential disasters in remote regions of the country, where matching and storing blood are difficult to maintain. Due to this, researchers have been motivated to develop this alternative blood which can be administered to anyone at any time, in any circumstances.

Global impact

If this trial brings us some reliable results, it would be both a scientific milestone and a great addition of support for the looming humanitarian need.

Lifesaving healthcare could become more accessible to patients, and could help reduce the anxiety of families facing injuries and medical emergencies in unprecedented and natural disaster events.