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Whose research first identified the Rh blood factor?

Human BiologyMedicine

Quick Answer

Karl Landsteiner, with Alexander Wiener, identified the Rh factor in 1940. It became crucial for blood transfusion safety and pregnancy care.

The Full Story

Karl Landsteiner and Alexander Wiener described the Rh factor in 1940 after studying blood reactions in rhesus monkeys and humans. The Rh system, especially the D antigen, is now one of the most important blood group systems after ABO. Rh incompatibility can cause hemolytic disease of the newborn when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus. Routine Rh testing and treatment have dramatically reduced these risks.

Key Facts

1.The Rh factor was identified in 1940
2.The D antigen is the most clinically important Rh marker
3.Rh incompatibility can affect pregnancy

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Suggested video title for this topic:

"The blood type factor that protects newborns"