Investigation of Wright Blood Group Alleles and Genotypes in Malaria-Endemic Area in Southwestern Saudi Arabia

This study demonstrated the allele frequencies of <i>DI*02.03</i> and <i>DI*02.04</i> of the DI blood group system in Saudi blood donors. The <i>DI*02.04</i> allele was the only allele that was observed. Furthermore, the prevalence of the genotypes was determined and the only observed genotype was <i>DI*02.04/DI*02.04</i>. Interestingly, this study indicates that the Saudi Arabian population living in Jazan Province may be more susceptible to <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> invasion. Moreover, adding the Wright alleles for the transfusion screening panel is not recommended.