Transfer of colostral immunoglobulins & tetanus antibodies from the buffalo to neonatal calves
Kulkarni, B.A.; Rao, S.S.; Rindani, T.H.
Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics 11(4): 299-302
1974
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-1208 PMID: 4468931 Document Number: 75854
Absorption of colostral immunoglobulins by neonatal buffalo calves was studied by immunoelectrophoresis, using rabbit and buffalo immunoglobulin serum. All the major classes of immunoglobulins were absorbed by the neonatal calves in the 1st 24-27 h. Transfer of tetanus antibodies from buffaloes to neonatal calves was studied by immunizing 5 pregnant buffaloes with adsorbed tetanus toxoid in the last 3 months of pregnancy. The antibody level in colostrum was reduced from 31 IU/ml at parturition to 16.10 and 2.80 IU/ml at 24 and 72 h post partum respectively. Thereafter, a gradual fall in antibody level in milk was observed for up to 4 wk. The calves were practically devoid of tetanus antibodies before suckling colostrum (mean value <0.01 IU/ml), but after suckling, tetanus antibody level in blood was increased to 2.90 IU/ml at 72 h; thereafter, a gradual decline in antibody level was observed up to 4 wk.