The US military wants to modify soldiers' blood to enhance their performance 💉

What if human blood became a biological weapon? In the United States, DARPA, a military research agency, is working on a project to modify red blood cells to enhance soldiers' performance. This innovation could also have impacts on current medicine.

The program, called "Red Blood Cell Factory," aims to insert active components into red blood cells. These modified cells could then transport drugs or additional protections throughout the body. The goal is to enable soldiers to better withstand the extreme conditions of the battlefield.

Red blood cells, new vectors

Red blood cells, naturally tasked with distributing oxygen, could become vectors for drugs or biological protections. According to researchers, these modified cells could neutralize infections like malaria or accelerate clotting in case of severe injury.

This approach is based on the idea that red blood cells, circulating throughout the body, could act as an automatic distribution system. A single injection could thus replace daily treatments, offering long-lasting protection.

Military and medical applications

On the battlefield, these modified cells could save lives by stopping hemorrhages or enhancing soldiers' resilience. Researchers also envision medical applications, such as treating infectious or chronic diseases requiring prolonged care.

For now, tests are limited to blood bags. Scientists still need to ensure that these modified cells will be well accepted by the body without being rejected.

An international technological race

China is also conducting military biotechnology research aimed at improving the physical and cognitive abilities of its soldiers. This technological competition raises ethical questions but also hopes for major medical advancements.

The outcomes of this research could transform the way we treat diseases, offering more effective and less burdensome treatments. Modified red blood cells could thus become a key tool in the fight against certain illnesses.

To go further: What is military biotechnology?

Military biotechnology is an emerging field that applies the principles of biology and biotechnology for military purposes. This can include the development of new biological weapons, the enhancement of soldiers' physical and cognitive abilities, or the creation of medical treatments for military personnel.

Research in military biotechnology is often controversial due to the ethical questions it raises. The use of biological weapons is prohibited by international conventions, and the enhancement of human abilities can be perceived as a form of doping or genetic manipulation.

However, proponents of military biotechnology highlight its potential to improve soldiers' health and safety, as well as to develop new medical technologies. They also emphasize that research in this field is necessary to protect against potential biological threats.

Military biotechnology is therefore a complex and sensitive field, sparking numerous debates and questions. It is important to closely follow developments in this area to understand the stakes it represents for the future of conflicts and medicine.