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Published on: April 28, 2007
Exploring passive transfer in muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus)
Cheryl Rosa1, Debra Miller, Matthew J Gray
1Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska, Fairbanks 99775, USA.
Summary
Captive muskoxen calves often suffer from poor health. This study found their immune system development, specifically immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels, mirrors that of domestic livestock, suggesting similar passive immunity transfer methods.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Wildlife Health
- Ruminant Physiology
Background:
- Captive muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) face challenges with calf production and health, including enteritis and septicemia in neonates.
- Understanding immune system development, particularly passive immunity transfer, is crucial for improving calf survival rates in managed populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare serum immunoglobulin G (IgG), total protein, albumin, and globulin levels in captive muskoxen with those in other well-described species.
- To evaluate the passive transfer of immunity in neonatal muskoxen calves and its similarity to domestic livestock.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from captive periparturient muskox females and their neonatal calves.
- Quantification of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels using radial immunodiffusion.
- Comparison of measured parameters with established reference ranges from domestic livestock, particularly cattle.
Main Results:
- All female muskoxen possessed detectable serum IgG levels.
- Neonatal calves appeared to be born with low or absent IgG (agammaglobulinemic or hypogammaglobulinemic).
- Serum IgG levels in calves increased significantly after colostrum intake, reaching levels comparable to domestic ruminants.
- Positive correlations were observed between serum protein and globulin levels with serum IgG, similar to Holstein cattle.
Conclusions:
- Passive transfer of immunity in muskoxen is comparable to that observed in domestic livestock.
- Reference ranges for serum IgG levels in domestic cattle can likely be applied to assist in interpreting muskoxen serum IgG data.
- Serum protein and globulin levels serve as useful indicators for assessing passive immunity transfer in muskoxen.
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