What distinguishes the phenotypes of the different ABO groups?
A) Different proteins on the surfaces of red blood cells
B) Different proteins inside red blood cells
C) Different nucleic acids on the surfaces of red blood cells
D) Different oligosaccharides inside red blood cells
E) Different oligosaccharides on the surfaces of red blood cells

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ABO blood group system is determined by the presence or absence of certain oligosaccharides on the surfaces of red blood cells. Group A individuals have the A antigen, which is made up of the A oligosaccharide, group B individuals have the B antigen, which is made up of the B oligosaccharide, group AB individuals have both A and B antigens, and group O individuals have neither A nor B antigens. These differences in oligosaccharides on the surfaces of red blood cells are what distinguish the phenotypes of the different ABO groups.

What Distinguishes the Phenotypes of the Different ABO Groups