MAN-MADE blood cells developed by Oxford scientists could be used as an alternative to donations by 2017.

NHS Blood and Transplant said the laboratory-produced red blood cells will be used in clinical trials in humans within two years’ time.

Dr Nick Watkins, NHS Blood and Transplant assistant director of research and development, said the intention was not to replace human donation, but to offer specialist treatment for specific patient groups.

He said: “Scientists across the globe have been investigating for a number of years how to manufacture red blood cells to offer an alternative to donated blood to treat patients.

“We are confident that by 2017 our team will be ready to carry out the first early phase clinical trials in human volunteers.”

Four of the county’s busiest hospitals use more than 26,000 pints of blood a year.

NHS Blood and Transplant, which also operates blood donation services across Oxfordshire, this month called on more people to sign up as part of National Blood Donor week.

Almost 500 people in the county registered to give blood during the Oxford Mail-backed campaign, compared to 160 in the same period last year.

Research being carried out with Oxford University staff is investigating using stem cells from adult and umbilical cord blood to create alternatives to donated blood, particularly for those with complex blood types who find it difficult to locate compatible donors.

Many of these patients have conditions such as sickle-cell anaemia and Thalassemia, which need regular blood transfusions. Teams at the universities of Bristol and Cambridge are also contributing to the research.