Scientist grow red blood cells in lab

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SCIENTISTS have grown huge quantities of red blood cells for the first time - a breakthrough that could make blood donations a thing of the past. The researchers harnessed stem cell technology to create cells from blood types A, B and O. They found the lab-grown cells were as good as natural ones at carrying oxygen - raising the possibility of creating artificial blood for use in transplants. Robert Lanza, one of the world's leading stem cell scientists, said: "You wouldn't have to worry about shortages because you could create as many as you want." Red blood cells are now used more often than blood in transfusions, added Professor Lanza, so the breakthrough has the potential to save countless lives.