Question Details

Human blood types in the ABO blood group are identified by

Options

A

clotting factors in plasma

B

microscopic examination of white blood cells

C

antigen-antibody reactions

D

series of enzyme controlled reactions

Correct Answer :

antigen-antibody reactions

Solution :

The correct option is antigen-antibody reactions.

Human blood types in the ABO blood group system are determined by the presence or absence of specific proteins called antigens on the surface of red blood cells. There are two main antigens in this system: Antigen A and Antigen B.
Additionally, the blood plasma contains antibodies (proteins produced by the immune system) that target foreign antigens: Anti-A antibodies and Anti-B antibodies.

To identify an individual's blood type, a blood sample is mixed with known antibodies (reagents containing Anti-A or Anti-B antibodies):

1. If a specific antigen is present on the red blood cells, it will bind to its corresponding antibody.
2. This binding causes the red blood cells to clump together in a visible reaction called agglutination.
3. For example, if blood clumps when mixed with Anti-A antibodies, it indicates the presence of Antigen A on the cells (indicating Type A or Type AB blood).

Therefore, the identification of ABO blood types relies directly on these specific antigen-antibody reactions.

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