Cellular blood constituents and serum protein fractions of the chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Abstract

The hematology and serum proteins of the chinchilla are described. Mean values obtained for hematologic parameters were erythrocyte count, 7.2 × 106/cmm; leukocyte count, 8.7 × 103/cmm; hematocrit, 41.9%; and hemoglobin, 14.7 g/100 ml. Differential counts revealed a large proportion of lymphocytes (65.7%). No significant effect of age on these blood constituents was detected. Disc electrophoresis of chinchilla serum proteins disclosed at least 13 distinct bands. Chemical fractionation using ethacridine lactate, gel filtration, and anion exchange chromatography was used to identify several of the proteins. The ratio of the concentration of transferrin to albumin was elevated in blood samples collected during March and April. This was suggested to be related either to pregnancy or to hair growth. Significant individual variation was detected in the levels of albumin and globulin and the ratio of these two fractions. Individual effects for globulin and the albumin–globulin ratio appeared to be related to the age of the animals.