Milk Plasmin, Antitrypsin, N-Acetyl-β-D-Glucosaminidase and Bacterial Growth in Lactoserum during the Early Post Partum Period

Abstract

The activities of plasmin, N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase) and antitrypsin in milk were determined during 1 week post partum. The concentration of NAGase and antitrypsin in milk decreased significantly during this period. A slight decrease in plasmin activity was also seen. Replication rates of E. coli and S. aureus in lactoserum were also determined. Both test bacteria showed a tendency for increasing growth rates towards the end of the period. Growth of E. coli was significantly (p < 0.01) enhanced in day 2 samples as compared with samples collected during the first day post partum.