D−− phenotype caused by a novel RHCE null allele

Abstract

A new hybrid RHCE null allele, denoted here RHCE*ce(48C)-D(3-7)-CE anddesignated by the ISBT as RHCE*01N.16, was found to be responsible for a D- -phenotype showing exalted D antigen expression. The loss of native RhCE proteinsinteractions may relieve some steric hindrance and increase D epitopes presentation atthe membrane surface resulting in an overexpression of the D antigen4. This is anunusual phenotype in all populations.