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Abstract
Antigens of the ABH and Lewis histo-blood group family have been known for a long
time. Yet their biological meaning is still largely obscure. Based on the available
knowledge about the genes involved in their biosynthesis and about their tissue distribution
in humans and other mammals, we discuss here the selective forces that may maintain
or propagate these oligosaccharide antigens. The ABO, alpha 1,2fucosyltransferase
and alpha 1,3fucosyltransferase enzyme families have been generated by gene duplications.
Members of these families contribute to biosynthesis of the antigens through epistatic
interactions. We suggest that the highly polymorphic genes of each family provide
intraspecies diversity that allows coping with diverse and rapidly evolving pathogens.
In contrast, the genes of low frequency polymorphism are expected to play roles at
the cellular level, although they may be dispensable at the individual level. In addition,
some members of these three gene families are expected to be functionally redundant
and may either provide a reservoir for additional diversity in the future or become
inactivated. We also discuss the role of the ABH and Lewis histo-blood group antigens
in pathologies such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases, but argue that it is merely
incidental and devoid of evolutionary impact.