type AB blood

biology

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July 14, 2026

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Type AB blood is one of the four main blood types in the ABO blood group system, discovered by Karl Landsteiner in 1901. Individuals with type AB blood have both A and B antigens on their red blood cells and do not produce antibodies against these antigens. This characteristic makes them "universal recipients," meaning they can safely receive red blood cells from donors of any ABO blood type (A, B, AB, or O). However, their plasma contains both anti-A and anti-B antibodies, so their blood can only be donated to individuals with type AB blood. The ABO blood groups are inherited and present from before birth throughout life.12345

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ABO blood group system
…type B, type O, or type AB blood. The A, B, and O blood groups were first identified by Austrian immunologist Karl Landsteiner in 1901. See blood group.
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…type B, type O, or type AB blood. The A, B, and O blood groups were first identified by Austrian immunologist Karl Landsteiner in 1901. See blood group.
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therapeutics
Blood and blood cells
Conversely, persons with type AB blood are universal recipients of red blood cells. Having no antibodies against A or B, they can receive type O, A, or B red blood cells (see ABO blood group system).
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Conversely, persons with type AB blood are universal recipients of red blood cells. Having no antibodies against A or B, they can receive type O, A, or B red blood cells (see ABO blood group system).
Read More