A new large-scale analysis has found a notable connection between certain ABO blood groups and the likelihood of developing autoimmune liver disorders. The findings indicate that a person’s inherited blood type may play a more important role in liver-related autoimmune activity than previously recognised.
The multicentre study evaluated whether specific blood groups are associated with autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, or primary sclerosing cholangitis. Results revealed that individuals with blood types A or B had a higher chance of developing these illnesses, while those with blood type O showed a comparatively reduced risk.
Among the key observations, blood type A displayed the strongest association with autoimmune hepatitis. Blood type B appeared more closely linked to primary biliary cholangitis. Conversely, blood group O showed a protective trend across multiple autoimmune liver conditions, aligning with patterns seen in other immune-mediated diseases.
Researchers suggest that these differences may stem from immunogenetic factors. ABO antigens, which are present on the surface of cells, may influence how the immune system recognises and responds to signals, potentially affecting tolerance, inflammation, and susceptibility to autoimmune injury in the liver.
Potential Impact on Screening and Personalised Medicine
While experts caution that blood type alone cannot determine whether someone will develop an autoimmune liver disease, the study indicates that ABO grouping could function as an additional risk marker. For people with a family history of autoimmune disorders or related immune conditions, this information may support more personalised monitoring or earlier clinical assessment.
Advancing Understanding of Autoimmune Liver Conditions
Autoimmune liver diseases are uncommon but can lead to serious complications if not detected in time. Better insight into underlying genetic and immunological influences can help refine prevention and treatment strategies. The study’s authors emphasise the need for further research across diverse populations to validate these associations and explore the biological mechanisms that link ABO blood groups with autoimmune liver disorders.