NEW research has identified a significant association between common ABO blood groups and the risk of developing autoimmune liver diseases, suggesting that inherited blood type may play a previously under-recognised role in liver autoimmunity.
In a large multicentre cohort analysis, investigators examined whether specific blood groups predispose individuals to autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, or primary sclerosing cholangitis. The data showed that people with blood type A or B had a higher likelihood of autoimmune liver diseases, whereas those with blood group O demonstrated a comparatively lower risk.
Among the key findings, blood type A was most strongly linked to autoimmune hepatitis, while blood type B was associated with an increased risk of primary biliary cholangitis. Blood group O appeared to offer partial protection across several autoimmune liver diseases, consistent with its known protective associations in other immune-mediated conditions.
Researchers believe these trends may reflect immunogenetic mechanisms. ABO antigens on cell surfaces may influence immune tolerance, antigen recognition, and inflammatory signalling, thereby modifying susceptibility to autoimmune liver injury.
Implications for Early Detection and Personalised Care
Although the authors stress that ABO blood type alone cannot predict disease onset, the results suggest that blood group information could serve as a supplementary risk indicator. For individuals with a family history of autoimmune disease or overlapping immune conditions, this information may support more tailored monitoring strategies or earlier diagnostic consideration.
A Step Toward Better Understanding Autoimmune Liver Disease
Autoimmune liver diseases are relatively rare but potentially severe if not diagnosed promptly. Improving knowledge of underlying genetic and immunological risk factors is an important step in refining prevention and management. The researchers call for further studies in broader and more diverse populations to confirm these associations and to clarify the biological pathways linking ABO blood groups with autoimmune liver pathology.
Reference
Hong Y et al. Association between ABO blood group system and autoimmune liver disease. Front Med. 2025; DOI:10.3389/fmed.2025.1696577.
