Unusual transferrin TF*D mutants in some Congo populations

Transferrin allele (TF) distribution was investigated in three Bantu and one Babenga Pygmy groups of Congo, by isoelectric focusing on polyacrylamide (PIEF). In comparison with other Black populations, the four groups had a twofold higher TF*D frequency. Three different TF*D mutants were observed, the commonest type of which was identical by PIEF to a *D1 Caucasian allele. The classification of the other two is discussed. The homozygous TF D1 pattern was present in Babenga. The polymorphism of transferrin confirmed the uniqueness of anthropological traits in such Congo populations.