What is a common characteristic of the O blood type?

The common characteristic of the O blood type is the presence of anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the plasma of individuals with this blood type. People with blood type O do not have A or B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, which is why they produce these antibodies. The presence of these antibodies helps to maintain a robust immune response against transfusions of A or B blood types, as the antibodies will react against any A or B antigens encountered.

In addition, individuals with O blood type are universal donors for red blood cell transfusions, which is not inherently reflected in this particular characteristic being assessed. Thus, while this fact about donors is relevant, it is the antibodies present in blood type O that primarily define its compatibility and unique properties.