FUT2

FUT2 (Fucosyltransferase 2) is an enzyme that plays a critical role in the synthesis of the H antigen, which is a precursor to the ABO blood group antigens. The FUT2 gene is located on chromosome 19 in humans and is involved in the secretor system, determining whether an individual can secrete blood group antigens in bodily fluids and mucosa.

Function

The primary function of the FUT2 enzyme is to catalyze the addition of fucose, a type of sugar, to precursor substances, thereby creating the H antigen. This antigen is found on the surface of red blood cells and in bodily fluids. The presence or absence of the H antigen, along with specific modifications by other enzymes, determines an individual's blood type in the ABO blood group system.

Genetic Variability and Secretor Status

Variations in the FUT2 gene can lead to differences in the secretor status of individuals. Those who have at least one functional copy of the FUT2 gene are considered "secretors," as they can secrete ABH antigens in their saliva and other bodily fluids. Non-secretors, who have two non-functional copies of the FUT2 gene, cannot secrete these antigens. The secretor status has implications for susceptibility to certain infections and diseases, as well as for the composition of the gut microbiome.

Clinical Significance

Research has shown that the secretor status influenced by FUT2 variations can affect an individual's susceptibility to various infectious diseases, including norovirus and bacterial infections of the digestive system. Additionally, the FUT2 gene has been implicated in the regulation of the gut microbiome, with non-secretors having a different microbial composition compared to secretors. This difference in the gut microbiome has been linked to various health outcomes, including inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing for FUT2 variants can determine an individual's secretor status. This information may be useful in personalized medicine, allowing for tailored dietary recommendations or risk assessments for certain diseases based on an individual's secretor status.

See Also

• ABO blood group system
• Genetic testing
• Gut microbiome
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Type 1 diabetes