To compare the expression of ABO blood group antigens in human livers and kidneys, and provide evidence for the role of ABO blood group antigens in antibody-mediated rejection.

Four blood type A, four blood type B and two blood type O donors of donation after citizen′s death were included in our study. After the donor livers and kidneys procurement, the samples including renal artery, renal vein, renal tissue, hepatic artery, hepatic vein, portal vein and hepatic tissue were evaluated using western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry to determine the content and distribution of ABO blood group antigens.

According to the results of WB, distribution of blood group antigens varied greatly among different tissues of a donor. The highest expression of blood group A antigen was found in renal tissue and portal vein, and the lowest expression of it was detected in renal artery. There was the highest expression of blood group B antigen in hepatic vein and renal tissue and the lowest expression in the renal artery, renal vein, and hepatic tissue. Blood group antigens varied a lot in the same tissue from different individuals. The results using immunohistochemistry were consistent with those by WB.

ABO blood group antigens varied greatly among different blood groups, different individuals, and different organs. These differences may affect the outcome of ABO incompatible organ transplant recipients.