A feature of the ABO groups not shared by other blood group systems is the reciprocal relationship, in an individual, between the antigens present on the red blood cells and the antibodies in the serum (see Table 7-1). When the red blood cells lack antigen A, the serum contains anti-A antibodies; when the cells lack antigen B, the serum contains anti-B. Formation of anti-A and anti-B antibodies in the absence of prior blood transfusion is believed to be a response to the natural occurrence of A-like and B-like antigens in the environment (e.g., in bacteria).

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