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Glycosyltransferase

Definition

The enzyme encoded by the ABO gene locus that attaches terminal sugar residues to the H antigen chain. Group A transferase adds N-acetylgalactosamine; group B transferase adds galactose; group O alleles encode a non-functional enzyme.

Related terms

Agglutination
Clumping of red cells that occurs when antibodies in serum bind to incompatible antigens on the cell surface, cross-linking cells into visible...
Antigen
A molecule recognised by the adaptive immune system through specific binding to an antibody or T-cell receptor. Defined by immunogenicity (capacity to...
Forensic Serology
The branch of forensic science concerned with detecting and characterising biological fluids (blood, semen, saliva, vaginal secretions) as evidence in legal proceedings,...
H Antigen
A fucose-containing oligosaccharide on red cell surfaces and secreted epithelial cells, produced by FUT1 (on red cells) and FUT2 (in secretions). It...
Isohemagglutinins
The naturally occurring antibodies (anti-A and/or anti-B) present in serum from birth without prior transfusion or immunisation. Group A individuals carry anti-B;...

Explained in

  • ABO System: Biology and Forensic HistoryThe enzyme encoded by the ABO gene locus that attaches terminal sugar residues to the H antigen chain. Group A transferase adds N-acetylgalactosamine; group B...

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