RHD

Role in the organism:

The RHD gene encodes a rhesus D antigen, a protein found on the surface of erythrocytes that determines the Rh (+) blood group. Although RhD is one of the most important Rh antigens, there are about 50 others, including the antigens of the RhC and RhE groups, which are encoded by another gene located near the RHD gene on chromosome 1.

Role in the disorder (state):

Mutations that affect the expression or antigenic properties of RhD determine the Rh (-) blood group. This in itself is not a cause for caring for the carrier, however, there is a risk to fetuses of Rh (-) negative mothers. This is because the rh (-) maternal organism does not recognize the RhD antigen as its own when the fetal erythrocytes (if the fetus is Rh +) cross the palcental barrier, so antibodies are generated against this antigen. In later pregnancy, the mother's body responds with an intense immune response, which results in major destruction of fetal erythrocytes (hemolytic disease).