Date of Award

12-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Rasheed Al Hammadi

Second Advisor

Dr. Salman Ashraf

Third Advisor

Dr. Amina Ahmed

Abstract

Knowledge of the frequencies and the phenotypes of ABO and rhesus system is very important for blood bank and transfusion services policies. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of ABO, Rhesus phenotype and most probable genotypes in Al Ain area (UAE). The studied group consisted of 500 locals of both gender from different age groups (17-58 years old). ABO and Rh-hr phenotype reactivity were determined using conventional tube method and gel technology, molecular techniques were also applied. Our study shows the distribution of ABO phenotypes was as follows: 0= 56%, A= 26.2%, B= 14.2% and AB= 3.6%. The distribution of Rh antigens was as follows: D= 90.4 %, C= 76.2%, E= 27.2%, c= 71.6% and e= 97.8%. And the distribution of most probable genotypes was as follows: Rl r= 29.8%, R l R l = 28.4%, R l R2= 16.8%, rr= 8.4%, R2 r= 8.2%, R o 1'=5%, R2 R2= 2.2%, and r'r= 1.2%. Our study showed that the most frequent antigen amongst five major antigens of Rh system was RhD while the least common was E antigen. We developed an innovative method that combines molecular analysis and serological testing of Rh genes to be applied in blood bank environment as it is considered as a first study done in the area. This approach could improve patient care and transfusion outcomes by reducing alloimmunization. The challenge lies in integrating such testing into blood bank environment, standardizing methods, obtaining Food and Drug Administration approval for labeling donor units, and enhancing information systems to incorporate and use this new information effectively.

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