Potential of next-generation sequencing to match blood group antigens for transfusion

Abstract

A review of the advances in applying next-generation sequencing (NGS) to transfusion medicine for the purpose of genotyping alleles encoding clinically important red blood cell and platelet antigens. NGS data from published studies confirm the possibility of antigen prediction based on sequencing of the whole genome, exome or targeted regions. What remains a challenge, to provide highly accurate NGS genotyping, is the further improvement of bioinformatic solutions for automated interpretation based on publicly accessible and improved reference databases appropriate for NGS methods as well as validation of a method based on the examination of a large number of individuals. There is no doubt, however, as to the future of NGS as a supplementary test used to provide highly compatible blood as well as to reduce the risk of patient's alloimmunization. This is part of personalized medicine.