ABH secretor genetic polymorphism: evidence of intrauterine selection

Abstract

Objective Fucosyltransferase locus 2 (FUT2) controls the presence or absence of blood group substances (A, B, H) in the saliva and other body secretions. Secretor/non-secretor phenotypes are associated with some metabolic and infectious diseases. ABO and FUT2 contribute to build up oligosaccharide structures of the cell surface that are important for blastocyst adhesion and resistance to microbial invasion. We investigated a possible selection on ABH secretor phenotypes during intrauterine life. Study design Three hundred and fifty-six consecutive healthy puerperae and their newborn infants from the caucasian population of Rome were studied. Informed consent for study participation was obtained from the mothers to participate and the study was approved by the Institutional Review Board. ABH secretor Se phenotype was determined on saliva by standard laboratory procedure. Results Symmetry analysis of mother infant Se phenotype revealed a deficit of mother Se+/newborn Se− with respect to expected values. The asymmetry is present only in infants carrying the A blood group antigen. The asymmetry was dependent on several maternal and neonatal parameters including maternal age, smoke, parity and gestational duration. Conclusions The data suggest intrauterine selection against Se− of the embryo carried by a Se+ mother. Such selection is dependent on factors influencing the maternal environment. The study could have practical importance in assessing the risk of infertility and success of artificial insemination.