vel blood group system
The ABO blood group isn't the only one. In fact, there are about 34 different human blood groups. Now, scientists in Nature Genetics have explained the genetic basis behind a rare blood group called Vel. Vel Blood Group Most people are Vel+ (Vel-positive), meaning that they possess the Vel antigen on the surface of their red blood cells. However, about 1 in 5,000 individuals are Vel- (Vel-negative), and thus do not carry the antigen. Their immune system recognizes the Vel antigen as foreign, and if given Vel+ blood, they can experience kidney failure or possibly death. A screen currently exists for this blood type, but it can be inaccurate; therefore, identifying the blood type's genetic basis will allow doctors to more easily screen patients.