Changes in the concentrations of serum proteins in calves during the first month of life

Abstract

The objective of this study was to describe the physiological changes in serum protein profile in calves during the first month of life. Seven clinically healthy calves were used in this study. Calves received colostrum and whole milk from their dams by voluntary sucking. The first blood sampling was performed within one hour after birth before colostrum intake (day 0) and then at 1, 2, 7, 14 and 30 days of age. Serum was analysed for total protein concentrations, and for the relative and absolute values of serum protein fractions – albumin, alpha1-(α1), alpha2-(α2), beta1-(β1), beta2-(β2) and gamma-(γ) globulins. The results showed a significant effect of age on total protein concentrations and for all the analysed protein fractions. The concentrations of total proteins, β2- and γ-globulins increased significantly one day after colostrum intake (P < 0.001) and then significantly decreased gradually till the end of the first month of age. An opposite trend was observed in the relative concentrations of albumin (P < 0.001). Significant decrease of values was found for relative concentrations of α1-globulins (P < 0.001) and increase of the relative values of α2- and β1-globulins from birth till the end of the monitored period (P < 0.001). The above mentioned changes are also reflected in changes of albumin/globulin ratio (P < 0.001). The results suggest that the serum protein profile in calves is significantly influenced by colostrum intake and the age of calves. This should be taken into consideration when interpreting the serum protein profile in young animals.