Mutations in GYPB exon 5 drive the S-s-U+(var) phenotype in persons of African descent: implications for transfusion
BACKGROUND: The S-s-U- phenotype in African Americans is due to a GYPB deletion, however the molecular basis for the S-s-U+var phenotype is poorly understood. Variable reactivity of S-s-U+var RBCs with monoclonal anti-He or by anti-U has been demonstrated, however the underlying molecular bases for this phenotype remain to be established. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Hemagglutination was performed on