FUT2 (SE) and FUT3 (LE) genes encode enzymes fucosyltransferases, which plays a key role in the synthesis of ABO and Lewis blood group antigens. FUT2 gene also determines the secretor status of an individual. Both genes are highly polymorphic and ethnically specific. In our study, we wanted to determine the presence of alleles of genes FUT2 and FUT3 in Slovenian blood donors genomic DNA samples and on the basis of the results determine their secretor status and Lewis phenotype. By secretor status determination using qPCR method, we wanted to provide a new diagnostic test. By Lewis blood group genotype determination we wanted to improve diagnostics, mostly when serological determination of Lewis blood group is not possible. Based on data from the literature, the most common mutation 428G>A in FUT2 gene was selected and the qPCR reaction was optimized. The serological and genotyping results results were compared. The genotype of two samples from Transfusion center Zürich, Schlieren were compared with our our genotyping results as well. The presence of Se and se alleles were predicted correctly and the concordance with secretor status was 100%. We conclude that the method is reliable for routine secretor status determination. Regarding to data from literature, we selected the appropriate FUT3 gene sequences. We optimized qPCR reactions for determination of most common SNPs in Caucasian population, 59T>G, 202T>C, 314C>T, 508G>A and 1067T>A for le allele. The results of each assay with already known Lewis phenotype in the control group were compared. The results show that the qPCR reactions to determine mutations 59T>G, 314C>T, 508G>A and 1067T>A in FUT3 gene were successfully prepared. Assay for determination of 202T>C mutation wasn`t specific enough, and the genotyping results were not consistent with the previously known Lewis phenotype in the control group. Determination of Lewis phenotype is very complex due to multiple mutation combinations, so we conclude that our approach is not appropriate for routine Lewis phenotype determination and need to be adjusted and upgraded.
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