RHDgen

RHDgen is a term that may be encountered in genetics and genomics literature to refer to the RhD gene or its genomic region, but it is not an official or widely standardized symbol. The clearly defined entity in human genetics is the RHD gene, which encodes the RhD protein and is a key component of the Rh blood group system.

The RHD gene is located on chromosome 1 (1p36.11) and comprises multiple exons that collectively produce the RhD antigen expressed on the surface of red blood cells. The presence of a functional RHD gene generally results in an RhD-positive phenotype, while disruption or absence of the gene leads to an RhD-negative phenotype. In many populations, RhD negativity results from deletion of the RHD gene, though other arrangements such as RHD pseudogenes or variants that inactivate expression also exist and contribute to serologic diversity.

Genetic variation in RHD includes weak D and partial D variants, which can influence blood typing and transfusion decisions. Accurate determination of RHD status is clinically important for transfusion compatibility and for preventing hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn in pregnancies at risk.

In practice, "RHDgen" may appear as an alias or shorthand in certain data sets or studies, but it is not the standard nomenclature. When referencing this gene, researchers typically use the official symbol RHD as designated by genome nomenclature authorities.

See also: Rh blood group system, transfusion medicine, hemolytic disease of the newborn.