MNS blood group system genes and share a high degree of sequence homology and gene structure. Homologous exchanges between and form hybrid genes encoding hybrid glycophorins GP(A-B-A) and GP(B-A-B). Over 20 hybrid glycophorins have been characterised. Each has a distinct phenotype defined by the profile of antigens expressed including Mi . Seven hybrid glycophorins carry Mi and have been reported in Caucasian and Asian population groups. In Australia, the population is diverse; however, the prevalence of hybrid glycophorins in the population has never been determined. The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of Mi and to classify Mi -positive hybrid glycophorins in an Australian blood donor population.
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