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Inbreeding and immunoglobulin G1 concentrations in cattle
R P Gilbert1, C T Gaskins, J K Hillers
1Washington State University, Pullman.
Journal of Animal Science
|October 1, 1988
Summary
Higher levels of Immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) in calf serum at 36 hours are linked to increased survival rates. Selection for improved IgG1 in colostrum and early calf serum can enhance herd health.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) is crucial for passive immunity transfer in neonatal calves.
- Colostrum quality and calf serum IgG1 levels are influenced by various genetic and maternal factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sources of variation affecting IgG1 concentrations in bovine colostrum and calf serum.
- To determine the heritability of IgG1 and its relationship with calf pre-weaning mortality.
Main Methods:
- Measured IgG1 in presuckle colostrum and calf serum (36h, weaning) across Angus, Brangus, Hereford, Red Angus, and Simmental breeds.
- Analyzed variation from sire line, sire within line, age, inbreeding, and dam's IgG1.
- Estimated heritability using paternal half-sib analysis.
Main Results:
- Sire line and dam's inbreeding significantly affected 36-h calf serum IgG1.
- Calf serum IgG1 at 36h was significantly influenced by sire within line and dam's colostral IgG1.
- Calves with <10 mg/ml IgG1 at 36h had 2-4 times higher mortality risk.
- Heritability estimates for IgG1 were .41 (colostrum), .56 (36h serum), and .05 (weaning serum).
Conclusions:
- IgG1 levels in colostrum and 36-h calf serum are heritable and can be improved through selection.
- Early-life IgG1 concentration is a significant predictor of calf survival to weaning.