Gene FUT2
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Also known as
B12QTL1, SE, SEC2, Se2, sejOverview
FUT2 is a gene that encodes a protein called fucosyltransferase 2. This protein is involved in the synthesis of H-antigens, which are carbohydrate structures that are found on the surface of cells. FUT2 is active in certain cells in the body, including those in the gastrointestinal tract and salivary glands. The H-antigens produced by FUT2 are important for the development of the intestinal microbiota, which is the community of microorganisms that live in the intestine.
Mutations in the FUT2 gene can cause a range of conditions, including secretor deficiency and susceptibility to certain infections. Secretor deficiency, or "non-secretor", is a condition in which individuals do not produce H-antigens in their body fluids, such as saliva, urine and breastmilk. This can affect the immune system and increase the risk of certain infections.
FUT2 is also a major determinant of the ABO blood group system, which is a system used to classify blood based on the presence or absence of certain carbohydrate structures on the surface of red blood cells. FUT2 plays a role in the production of the A and B blood group antigens, which are important in blood transfusions. Individuals who have mutations in the FUT2 gene may have blood type O, which is the most common blood type and is considered a universal donor.