gamma-Glutamyltransferase and serum proteins in buffalo calves following colostral ingestion

Catalytic activity concentrations of gamma-glutamyltransferase in blood were determined for the evaluation of colostral ingestion. gamma-Glutamyltransferase levels were compared with those of total proteins, albumins and total globulins in the serum, showing good correlation at 2-3 days after birth. gamma-Glutamyltransferase was determined using the Boehringer Mannheim ''Reflotron'' dry chemistry enzyme strips. After colostral ingestion, blood gamma-glutamyltransferase increased from 35 +/- 19 U/l at birth to 1563 +/- 1283 U/l. Electrophoretic separation of total proteins showed an increase of serum gamma-globulins from 4.2 g/l before ingestion to 32.9 g/l after ingestion. The same analytes were determined in colostrum showing the major protein fraction to be gamma-globulins. gamma-Globulins and gamma-glutamyltransferase permeate to the blood stream, and there is a good correlation between them. The enzyme gamma-glutamyltransferase can be used as an equivalent for the determination of gamma-globulins in the calf serum and the degree of colostral ingestion.