| Abstract: | Hemolytic and bactericidal complement-dependent activities were measured in quarter mammary secretions obtained during the first 21 days of the nonlactating (dry) period from 8 Holstein-Friesian cows. We demonstrated an inhibition of hemolytic activity and bactericidal activity against a serum-sensitive Escherichia coli strain. Both hemolytic and inhibitory titers increased markedly during active involution. The bactericidal activity of dry secretions required a minimal threshold of complement and an inhibitory titer lower than the hemolytic titer. |
