vércsoportfelfedezése

vércsoportfelfedezése, or the discovery of blood groups, refers to the scientific identification and classification of antigens present on the surface of red blood cells. The concept originated in the first half of the twentieth century, driven by the need to improve transfusion safety. In 1901, German biologist Karl Landsteiner first described three major blood groups (A, B, and O) by observing agglutination reactions when mixing different blood samples. His work demonstrated that specific antigens on erythrocytes caused immune reactions, laying the foundation for modern blood transfusion practices.

Landsteiner was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1930 for this breakthrough. Subsequent research expanded the system to recognise the Rh factor in 1940, a crucial addition because its presence or absence (positive or negative) influences transfusion compatibility and pregnancy outcomes. In the 1960s, finer subgroups and other systems such as Kell, Duffy, Kidd, and MNS were identified, broadening the understanding of red cell antigens.

Blood group discovery employs serological assays, wherein antibodies bind to specific antigens, triggering visible clumping (agglutination). Modern techniques include molecular genotyping, allowing identification of blood group alleles from DNA samples. Accurate typing of blood groups is essential for matching donors and recipients, preventing transfusion reactions, and managing hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. The continuous refinement of blood group classification remains integral to transfusion medicine, transplantation, and forensic investigations.