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Why Is He Different from Both Parents?

The Genetics of ABO Blood Types

By Jun Liang, William J. Rice

Why Is He Different from Both Parents?


 

Abstract

This case study was developed to teach the topic of human ABO blood type and genetic inheritance in biology courses at the lower undergraduate level or upper high school level. It is suitable for entry level biology, genetics, and physiology courses. The case narrative tells the story of Kevin, a teenager who is puzzled by the fact that neither of his parents can donate blood to him. He and his best friend ask their biology teacher for help, and she explains human ABO blood types at the molecular and genetic level to solve the mystery. The case consists of three sections, which can be used sequentially or separately. After completing the case study, students will understand the molecular basis of ABO blood types and how genes control the phenotype and genotype of an individual. They will also have a better understanding of how human ABO blood type is inherited from generation to generation.

   

Date Posted

07/25/2016

Overview

Objectives

  • Understand the significance of human ABO blood types.
  • Explain surface markers, genes, and alleles that determine human blood types.
  • Determine the possible genetic makeup of an individual with a given blood type.
  • Use genetic principles to determine possible inheritance of ABO blood type.
  • Understand antigens and antibodies created in each blood group.
  • Explain blood transfusion reactions.

Keywords

carbohydrate; genetic inheritance; ABO blood type; positive; negative; antibody; blood transfusion; blood serum; Punnett square; Mendelian genetics

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Cell Biology
Genetics / Heredity
Physiology
Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Discussion

 

 

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