Inheritance in Other BGS

Each blood group system (BGS) has a unique inheritance, some more complex than others. See Suggested reading for more details. For purposes of this module, only a few examples will be presented, and at a basic level.

Kell BGS

Antithetical antigens in this system include K and k; Kp^a and Kp^b; Js^a and Js^b; and more. At the routine level K (also known as KEL1) and k (KEL2) are the most significant; their inheritance is controlled by K and k, which are co-dominant alleles. Most individuals (91% of Caucasians and 98% of Blacks) have the red cell phenotype K-k+.

An example of Kk inheritance is shown in Figure1-19.

Duffy BGS

Duffy is controlled by two co-dominant alleles, Fy^a and Fy^b; as well as Fy, a third allele, very rare in Caucasians but common in Blacks. There are four red cell phenotypes:

Fy(a+b-)
Fy(a+b+)
Fy(a-b+)
Fy(a-b-)

Most Caucasians (~49%) inherit both Fy^a and Fy^b and type as Fy(a+b+). Most Blacks (68% in USA; higher in African countries) inherit two Fy genes and type as Fy(a-b-).

Examples of Duffy inheritance are shown in Figure1-20.

MNSs BGS

The MNSs system is controlled by two sets of co-dominant alleles, MN and Ss, which are inherited at fairly closely linked loci. Unlike the Rh system, crossing over is possible in MNSs.

An example of MNSs inheritance is given in Figure1-21.

Rh BGS

Other BGS

Enrichment Article