Immunohematology is a massive empirical
research undertaking, namely, an in-depth probing
and mapping of the universe of allopolymorphisms
present on the human RBC surface. In this
endeavor, each transfused patient is an actual or
potential future donor of unique antibodies to
individual allopolymorphisms, and the global
collection and characterization of such antibodies
have aided in more and more refined dissection of
the antigenic exterior geography of the RBC. This
has led to the discovery of blood groups and their
classification into defined blood group systems; the
identification and characterization of the molecules
(proteins, glycoproteins, and glycolipids) carrying
blood group polymorphisms; mapping and cloning
of the responsible genes; and the delineation of
functions of the corresponding gene products