The Molecular Basis Of The Rhesus Antigen E-W

BACKGROUND: The Rhesus antigen E-w (ISBT designation 004 011) was first described in 1955. It is defined by a specific antibody, but its molecular genetic basis has not yet been resolved.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Two individuals serologically characterized to express the rare Rhesus antigen E-w were analyzed by sequencing of all 10 exons of the RHCE gene.RESULTS: A nucleoticle exchange at position 500 (T500A) resulting in a Met167Lys amino acid substitution was found in both individuals. Moreover, we show that an individual carrying the Ew antigen is capable to produce an alloantibody against the wild-type E antigen.CONCLUSION: The single-point mutation T500A in exon 4 of the RHCE gene is a molecular basis of the rare Rhesus antigen E-w.