GM ANTIGENS Meaning and
Definition
-
GM antigens, also known as glycosylation-dependent recognition determinants, refer to specific carbohydrate structures present on the surface of red blood cells (RBCs). They are part of the broader blood group system called the Gerbich (Ge) system, which consists of genetically determined antigens found on RBCs.
These GM antigens are composed of multiple carbohydrate residues, such as fucose, N-acetylglucosamine, and sialic acid, which attach to proteins on the red blood cell membrane. The presence or absence of these specific antigens depends on an individual's genetic makeup and can vary within different populations.
Unlike major blood groups like ABO and Rh, the GM system is of lesser clinical significance and is not routinely used in blood transfusion compatibility testing. However, GM antigens have been implicated in certain autoimmune hemolytic diseases and in the detection of irregular antibodies responsible for transfusion reactions.
The identification of GM antigens relies on serological techniques, including agglutination assays using monoclonal antibodies specifically targeting these antigens. These antibodies can differentiate between various GM phenotypes and are useful in studies involving population genetics, transplantation, and immunohematology research.
Overall, GM antigens are a subset of carbohydrates attached to proteins on the red blood cell surface, which contribute to the complexity of the blood group system and play a role in certain diseases and immune reactions.
Common Misspellings for GM ANTIGENS
- fm antigens
- vm antigens
- bm antigens
- hm antigens
- ym antigens
- tm antigens
- gn antigens
- gk antigens
- gj antigens
- gm zntigens
- gm sntigens
- gm wntigens
- gm qntigens
- gm abtigens
- gm amtigens
- gm ajtigens
- gm ahtigens
- gm anrigens
- gm anfigens
- gm angigens
Etymology of GM ANTIGENS
The term "GM antigens" refers to antigens that are genetically determined by a group of genes called the "GM system". The etymology of the abbreviation "GM" lies in the name of the Swedish researcher, Gunnar Ove Björck, who identified these genetic markers. Thus, the "G" in "GM" represents "Gunnar" and the "M" stands for "Marker". The term "antigens" pertains to the substances that stimulate an immune response and are present on the surface of cells, bacteria, or viruses.
