Textbook Question
A derivative of chitin, called chitosan, is sometimes incorporated into bandages to aid healing. Propose a reaction to convert the chitin dimer into a chitosan dimer. [Note: The glycoside linkage is unstable in acid.]
28. Carbohydrates
Polysaccharide
3:40 minutesProblem 33a
Textbook Question
Refer to Figure 20.5 to answer the following questions: a. People with type O blood can donate blood to anyone, but they cannot receive blood from everyone. From whom can they not receive blood?
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context: Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens (A and B) on the surface of red blood cells. Type O blood lacks both A and B antigens, but it has antibodies against both A and B antigens in the plasma.
Recall the compatibility rule: A person with type O blood can only receive blood that does not have A or B antigens, as their antibodies would attack any red blood cells with these antigens.
Identify incompatible blood types: Blood types A, B, and AB all have either A or B antigens (or both). Therefore, a person with type O blood cannot receive blood from individuals with these blood types.
Summarize the answer: People with type O blood can only receive blood from other type O individuals because type O blood lacks A and B antigens, making it compatible with their antibodies.
Relate to Figure 20.5: Use the figure to confirm the antigen-antibody relationships and verify the compatibility rules for blood transfusions.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Blood Type Antigens
Blood types are determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells. Type O blood lacks A and B antigens, making it a universal donor. However, this absence means that individuals with type O blood can only receive blood from other type O donors, as they would produce antibodies against A and B antigens found in other blood types.
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Blood Type Antibodies
In addition to antigens, blood types are also characterized by the presence of antibodies in the plasma. Type O individuals have both anti-A and anti-B antibodies, which can react against A and B antigens present in other blood types. This reaction can lead to serious transfusion reactions if type O individuals receive blood from types A, B, or AB.
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Transfusion Compatibility
Transfusion compatibility is crucial for safe blood transfusions, as it ensures that the donor's blood does not trigger an immune response in the recipient. For type O blood, compatibility is limited to other type O blood due to the presence of anti-A and anti-B antibodies. Understanding this compatibility is essential for preventing adverse reactions during blood transfusions.
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