genetic studies on immunological relationship between friesian cows and their calves

One hundred and seventeen apparently normal heavy pregnant Friesiancows ranging in age from 2 to 11 years and their calves were used in the presentinvestigation. They are part of the dairy herds maintained in GemeizaExperimental Station, Gharbia province, Egypt. Animals in these herds areraised according to the management and feeding regimes of the Institute ofAnimal Production. The field part of the present work extended from January2003 till June 2004.Blood samples were collected aseptically from pregnant cows 10 daysbefore parturition and 10 days after parturition. Samples from calves werecollected before and 10 days after feeding colostrum.Statistical analyses were executed on serum and colostrum metabolicprofiles. The variables studied were total protein, albumin, globulin, albumin toglobulin ratio (AGR), beta carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, immunoglobulins(IgG, IgA and IgM) and blood total leukocytic count. Moreover, geneticanalyses were performed to estimate the heritability as well as phenotypic andgenetic correlations among these measured variables.I. Blood serum components:a. In cows.Age of the cow had significant influence on total protein, albumin.