POSTNATAL ADAPTION OF THE DIGESTIVE-TRACT IN THE FOAL

Citation
V. Bracher et al., POSTNATAL ADAPTION OF THE DIGESTIVE-TRACT IN THE FOAL, Pferdeheilkunde, 12(3), 1996, pp. 199-203
Citations number
40
Categorie Soggetti
Veterinary Sciences
Journal title
ISSN journal
01777726
Volume
12
Issue
3
Year of publication
1996
Pages
199 - 203
Database
ISI
SICI code
0177-7726(1996)12:3<199:PAOTDI>2.0.ZU;2-V
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract of the newborn is challenged with 3 differe nt tasks: During the first 24 hrs after parturition, the transfer of c olostrum-derived IgG has to take place. In addition, rapid adaptation is necessary for oral uptake and enzymatic digestion of milk, the main source of energy during the first weeks of life. Thirdly, the sterile gut lumen will quickly be invaded by a variety and large quantity of microorganisms. This microbial invasion is on one hand potentially har mful, but it is also essential for the establishment of the cellulolyt ic flora in the hindgut of the horse.