Abstract: Disclosed herein are nucleic acid molecules which permit the accurate and direct determination of blood groups based on the presence of certain genes. A method of determining blood groups is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method and an algorithm for genetic cross-matching based on the comparison of recipient and donor genotypes—and the underlying combinations of alleles and haplotypes. The method of the invention, rather than focusing on phenotype prediction, instead relies on a comparison of genetic variants identified in the recipient and available donors, whose information preferably will be compiled in a widely available donor registry, to maximize molecular compatibility. The genotypes can be matched based on the weighted clinical significance of a genotypic difference between donor and recipient, such that certain mismatches are more acceptable than others.

Abstract: The present invention provides an isolated peptide comprising a Dombrock carrier molecule that contains either a Dombrock (a) antigen or a Dombrock (b) antigen. Further, the present invention provides a nucleic acid encoding a Dombruck carrier molecule or fragments thereof. Moreover, a nucleic acid encoding a Dombrock (a) antigen or fragments thereof is provided. The present invention also provides a nucleic acid encoding a Dombrock (b) antigen or fragments thereof. Kits comprising antibodies to either the Dombrock (a) antigen or the Dombrock (b) antigen are also provided. Moreover, kits comprising either the Dombrock (a) antigen or the Dombrock (b) antigen, and kits comprising nucleic acids that encode the Dombrock (a) antigen or the Dombrock (b) antigen are provided. Methods for detecting the Dombrock (a) antigen or the Dombrock (b) antigen, and methods for detecting antibodies specifically binding to the Dombrock (a) antigen or the Dombrock (b) antigen are provided.