Boffins have discovered a special protein, which can help improve treatment of inherited anaemia.

Scientists from Erasmus Medical Center (MC) stated that the KLF1 blood protein is less active in several members of a Maltese family, but their blood is able to absorb and carry oxygen (O2).

"If patients were to have the same KLF1 protein as the Maltese family the transportation of their oxygen would then improve," Sjaak Philipsen said.

The novel discovery showed that the haemoglobin production in the Maltese family is like unborn babies.

As infants take oxygen from their mother's blood, they fabricate a form of haemoglobin, which binds with oxygen better than hemoglobin of an adult.

When the KLF1 blood protein is less active, more so-called foetal haemoglobin enters into the blood, resulting in improved uptake and transport of oxygen.

Philipsen said, "Follow-up research will enable us to determine whether it is also possible to change the protein in patients in such a way that the uptake and transport of oxygen can be improved."

The discovery will be released in the August edition of the leading journal 'Nature Genetics'. (With Inputs from Agencies)