Changes in intestinal proteins induced by colostrum uptake in neonatal calves: analysis by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis-based proteomics analysis

Abstract

Colostrum is a unique source of biological molecules, and the uptake of colostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG) by neonatal calves is related to the success of passive immunity transfer, an important determinant of health and survival. However, studies on colostral IgG uptake in the small intestine by using proteomics approaches have been scarce. In the present study, samples of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were collected ~2 h after birth from calves not fed colostrum, and 8, 24, and 36 h after birth from calves fed colostrum. Protein samples were extracted and separated by temporal two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and differential protein spots were identified by mass spectrometry. After colostrum feeding, internalised IgG in the duodenum and jejunum was detected at ~8 and 24 h, and then was barely detected at 36 h after birth. The IgG internalised in the ileum of calves fed colostrum was detected ~24 and 36 h after birth. Beta-lactoglobulin was upregulated in the entire small intestine; these levels were maintained for 24 h and were barely detected thereafter in neonatal calves fed colostrum. Moreover, changes in several proteins in the small intestine were detected after calves received colostrum. The results of the present study showed the distribution and variation of internalised IgG in the duodenum, jejunum and ileum of neonatal calves that received colostrum after birth. These findings indicated that IgG and β-lactoglobulin in the small intestine of calves fed colostrum may be related to their unique bioactive functions, providing a basis for improvements in calf rearing and management.