Blood Types

ABO Gene

The gene located on chromosome 9 that determines an individual's blood type.

Alleles

Variants of the ABO gene, specifically A, B, and O, that influence blood type.

Genotype

The combination of alleles an individual possesses for a specific trait, such as blood type.

Phenotype

The observable expression of a trait, such as an individual's blood type.

Dominant Alleles

The alleles A and B, which express their traits over the recessive allele O.

Recessive Allele

The allele O, which only expresses its trait when paired with another O allele.

Punnett Square

A tool used to predict the possible genotypes of offspring based on parental alleles.

Blood Type A Genotype

IAIA or IAi, indicating the presence of A antigens.

Blood Type AB Genotype

IAIB, indicating the presence of both A and B antigens.

Blood Type B Genotype

IBIB or IBi, indicating the presence of B antigens.

Blood Type O Genotype

ii, indicating the absence of A and B antigens.

Antigens

Proteins on the surface of red blood cells that determine blood type.

Antibodies

Proteins in blood plasma that recognize and attack foreign molecules.

Blood Transfusion

A medical procedure where blood is transferred from a donor to a recipient, requiring compatibility of blood types.

Compatibility

The matching of donor and recipient blood types to prevent immune responses during transfusions.

Rhesus Factor (Rh)

A specific protein in blood that classifies blood as Rh positive or negative.

Rh Positive

Individuals who have the Rh protein, making up about 85% of the population.

Blood Type Statistics

Data revealing the relative abundance of different blood types in the population.

Rare Blood Types

Blood types that exist beyond the ABO system, indicating diversity in blood characteristics.

Blood Type Matching

The process of ensuring donor and recipient blood types are compatible to avoid adverse reactions.