 Genetic links could help find vital donors |
Scottish patients could draw on ancient clan blood-ties in order to find organ donors, according to research. Oxford University scientists have suggested they may be able to draw on their namesakes to find a life-saving genetic match.
The human genetics study looked at using the international network of clans to help find suitable donors.
It found that clan members were more closely related to one another than previously thought.
DNA tests found that 20% of MacDonalds worldwide were directly descended from their 12th century clan founder.
The chances of finding tissue matches are higher among close family members.
Researchers now hope the global network of clans could be used to recruit donors to transplant registers.
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