Lewis

Lewis is a term with multiple meanings in the field of medicine. It can refer to a gene known as the Lewis gene, or to a blood group system known as the Lewis system.

Lewis Gene[edit | edit source]

The Lewis gene is responsible for the production of the Lewis blood group system. It is located on chromosome 19 and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The gene encodes a fucosyltransferase enzyme that adds a fucose sugar to precursor substances, resulting in the formation of the Lewis a and Lewis b antigens.

Lewis Blood Group System[edit | edit source]

The Lewis blood group system is a human blood group system based upon two genes on chromosome 19: FUT3 (the Lewis gene) and FUT2 (the Secretor gene). The system consists of two main antigens: Lewis a (Le^a) and Lewis b (Le^b). These antigens are not produced in the red blood cells, but in the body's tissues and secretions.

Lewis a[edit | edit source]

Lewis a (Le^a) is an antigen that is present in individuals who are non-secretors, meaning they do not secrete ABO antigens in their bodily fluids. The presence of this antigen can be determined through blood typing.

Lewis b[edit | edit source]

Lewis b (Le^b) is an antigen that is present in individuals who are secretors, meaning they secrete ABO antigens in their bodily fluids. The presence of this antigen can also be determined through blood typing.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The Lewis blood group system has clinical significance in transfusion medicine, immunohematology, and organ transplantation. It can also play a role in susceptibility to certain infections and diseases, such as Helicobacter pylori infection and Norovirus gastroenteritis.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Lewis Resources
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