Gamma Globulin Absorption in the Baby Pig

Abstract

Serum profiles for total serum proteins, albumin, alpha, beta and gamma globulin in baby pigs taken at 5 intervals up to 31 days of age were given. These values for the naturally farrowed-nursing pig were compared with values from pigs obtained by hysterectomy and raised in isolation with a modified cow's milk. Using fluorescent-tagged gamma globulins from various sources, (bovine, human, equine and porcine) as well as the alpha fraction from bovine serum and the beta fraction from bovine and swine serum, the absorption of heterologous gamma globulins was confirmed. Pigs that were fed milk for 12 hours after birth failed to absorb tagged gamma globulin after that length of time. Pigs that received only water or that were starved for 106 hours subsequent to birth still retained the ability to take up gamma globulin.