Age-related variability of serum protein antigens in sturgeons (Acipenseridae, Acipenseriformes)

We studied the variability of antigenic properties of proteins in two sturgeon species at different stages of postembryonic development. The deepest changes occurred in individual components of albumins and beta-globulins (transferrins) and were mostly related to an increased proportion of the protein accounting for these antigens. Transformation of the main component of albumins A1 into adult antigens was completed in 5-month old fry. The main component of beta-globulins A (component of transferrins) appeared in the blood flow much later than other proteins and could retain the fry features until the age of 3-4 years. Other antigens belonging to alpha1- and alpha2-globulins and the second component of transferrins were more stable and did not undergo substantial changes. The direction of ontogenetic variability of serum antigens in sturgeon fry did not depend on the habitat of adult fish in fresh or sea water.