Detection and phenotype analysis of a novel Ael blood group allele

Abstract Background and Objectives The presence of blood subtypes may lead to difficulties in blood group identification; however, third‐generation sequencing (TGS) can help in accurately identifying difficult blood groups, and study the serological characteristics and molecular mechanism of Ael subtypes. Materials and Methods ABO blood group was identified by the standard serological technique, weak blood group antigen was identified by adsorption‐elution experiments, ABH substance in the saliva was determined and glycosyltransferase activity of A and B was detected. The ABO gene full‐length sequence and promoter region were amplified by specific primers using single‐molecule real‐time sequencing, with the amplified products being sequenced directly and analysed in real time. Results The patient was serologically identified as Ael subtype, and TGS analysis revealed new intron mutations in Ael patients (c.467C>T; c.29‐10T>A). Conclusion The discovery of the new allele and the identification of ABO subtypes can be combined with serological characterization and molecular biological methods.