The human ABO blood group system is determined by the presence or absence of three antigens, namely A, B, and O, on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs). The corresponding antibodies present in plasma react with the incompatible antigens, leading to agglutination and haemolysis. However, in certain conditions, these antibodies can bind to the same antigens present on soluble or membrane-bound self-antigens, resulting in ABO inhibition. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics and significance of ABO inhibition patches.
ABO inhibition patches are defined as specific areas of RBCs devoid of A or B antigens, surrounded by a thick rim of antigen-positive cells. These patches are usually located on the edges of ABO blood group boundaries, where the incompatible antibodies encounter self-antigens with similar structures. During the formation of the inhibition patches, the binding of antibodies to self-antigens prevents the normal deposition of the corresponding antigens on the adjacent RBCs, resulting in their exclusion and the creation of a clear zone.
The detection of ABO inhibition patches is crucial for studying the underlying mechanisms and their clinical implications. Several techniques have been developed to visualise these patches, including the Immediate Spin Crossmatch, the allogeneic adsorption-elution method, the Inhibition Enhancement test, and the Acid Elution test. Among these methods, the most commonly used one is the Immediate Spin Crossmatch, which involves mixing the recipient's serum or plasma with the donor's red cells and observing the presence or absence of agglutination and inhibition patches.
The presence of ABO inhibition patches has important clinical implications, especially in the field of transfusion medicine and transplantation. Inhibition patches can cause false-negative reactions in standard serological tests and lead to unexpected transfusion reactions or organ rejections. Therefore, it is essential to detect and interpret these patches accurately to ensure the safety and efficacy of transfusions and transplants. Additionally, the study of ABO inhibition patches can provide insights into the structure, function, and regulation of the ABO blood group system and related glycosylation patterns.
In conclusion, ABO inhibition patches represent a unique and intriguing aspect of the ABO blood group system, indicating the complex interactions between antibodies and self-antigens. The accurate detection and interpretation of these patches are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of transfusions and transplants, as well as for the advancement of our understanding of the ABO blood group system.
下一篇:返回列表