Transfer of gamma-glutamyltransferase from mother colostrum to newborn goat and foal.

This research examines the transfer of the enzyme gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) from the mother’s colostrum to newborn goats and foals. The study finds varied GGT levels in newborns and reveals the potential of GGT measurement as a test of colostrum intake in newborn goats, but not in foals.

Finding Levels of Gamma-Glutamyltransferase in Colostrum

• The study found that gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity in colostrum (the first type of milk produced by the mammary glands of mammals immediately following delivery of the newborn), especially from goats and mares (female horses), is relatively low. The averages were around 900 U/l and 350 U/l, respectively.
• Colostrum is crucial for newborns as it is rich in nutrients and antibodies. This research focused on the presence and transfer of the enzyme GGT from the mother to the newborn.

Transfer of Gamma-Glutamyltransferase to Newborns

• Before suckling, GGT levels in the serum of newborn goats and foals were also low, registering less than or equal to 28 U/l in goats and similarly low levels in foals.
• In newborn goats, GGT levels increased considerably on the first day post-birth, averaging around 127U/l. However, these levels decreased over the following days.
• In foals, serum GGT levels showed a progressive increase over the first five days post-birth and then gradually reduced.

Variations Based on Protein Absorption Capabilities

• The observed differences in GGT levels can be attributed to the varying protein absorption capabilities between newborn foals and goats.
• Newborn foals display selective protein absorption while goats absorb protein unselectively.
• This variation in absorption capabilities explains why the increase in GGT is slow but regular in foals, while in goats it increases rapidly on the first day but decreases thereafter.

The Potential of GGT Measurement as a Colostrum Intake Test

• The research suggests that measuring serum GGT in newborn goats can be a useful indicator of colostrum intake.
• Due to the varying protein absorption capabilities and the different patterns in GGT level changes, this method is not recommended for gauging colostrum intake in foals.