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 surface molecule that the immune system can recognise and respond to. On red blood cells, ABO antigens are oligosaccharide chains attached...
- 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
- The core fucosylated precursor oligosaccharide from which A and B antigens are biochemically constructed by glycosyltransferase enzymes. Group O individuals retain abundant...
- 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...