The genetic and enzymic regulation of the synthesis of the A and B determinants in the ABO blood group system.

Possible genetic models for the inheritance of the ABO blood groups are discussed in terms of the glycosyltransferase enzymes which complete the synthesis of the A and B determinants. Recent immunologic evidence in support of the allelic status of the ABO genes is reviewed. Results are presented of experiments which demonstrate that the B gene associated alpha-3-D-galactosyltransferase can be used to synthesis blood group A determinants.