Invitrogen™ CD235a Polyclonal Antibody

Glycophorin A, also known as CD235a, is a 151 amino acid sialoglycoprotein expressed on the membrane of mature erythrocytes and erythroid progenitor cells, with approximately 500,000 copies per cell. The gene for glycophorin A is located on chromosome 4 and exists in two allelic forms, M and N, which differ by two amino acids: the M group has Ser1 and Gly5, while the N group has Leu1 and Glu5. These allelic variations define the blood group M and N specificities. Glycophorin A serves multiple functions, including providing a mucin-like barrier that minimizes aggregation between red blood cells in circulation, potentially preventing cell fusion. It also acts as a receptor for certain pathogens, including Sandei virus, parvovirus, and Hsa, a Streptococcus adhesin. Recent studies suggest that exposure to toxins can lead to mutations or loss of alleles, resulting in phenotypic changes. There is ongoing research correlating genotype and phenotype with predisposition to diseases such as cancer and heart disease, highlighting the importance of glycophorin A in both health and disease. Glycophorin A is a significant marker for studying erythrocyte-related functions and pathologies, as well as its role in pathogen interactions and disease predisposition.