Reference Intervals for Plasma Capillary Zone Electrophoresis in Hermann's Tortoises (Testudo Hermanni) Depending on Season and Sex

A comparison of thyroid hormone levels and plasma capillary zone electrophoresis in red‐eared sliders (Trachemys scriptaelegans) and map turtles (Graptemysspp.) depending on season and sex

“…The separation of the other globulin fractions, albumin and prealbumin fractions differed more between species and electrophoretic techniques based on the separation principle and the different protein structures. The fractions found in the turtle species studied are comparable to those found in Hermann's tortoises using CZE 23 . The main differences between the tortoises and turtles in the present study are the split albumin fractions in most of the turtles examined.…”

“…Interestingly, CZE led to the differentiation of more peaks in both the sliders and map turtles than described in Hermann's tortoises 23 using the same technology (Figures 1 and 2). In red‐eared sliders (Figure 1) and map turtles (Figure 2), it was possible to differentiate prealbumin, split albumin, split α‐globulin, split β‐globulin, and single γ‐globulin peak.…”

“…The authors concluded that electrophoresis is preferable for the correct measurement of albumin. A study comparing albumin levels measured using CZE with those measured using the BCG method in Hermann's tortoises ( Testudo hermanni ) 23 showed that the differences between the two detection methods varied depending on sex and season. Similar results were obtained for the comparisons in the present study.…”

“…To allow for comparisons with previous studies in red‐eared sliders, 26 and between the two detection methods for albumin, the fractions of the electropherograms were divided into a total albumin fraction that included both prealbumin and albumin, as well as the α‐, β‐, and γ‐globulin fractions. Fractions were defined based on the graphic evaluation of the electropherograms, beginning with a single γ‐globulin peak on the right because this fraction is similar in all healthy chelonian species using a variety of different techniques 23,26,27 . The separation of the other globulin fractions, albumin and prealbumin fractions differed more between species and electrophoretic techniques based on the separation principle and the different protein structures.…”

Protein electrophoresis of non‐traditional species: A review

“…22 In two other studies of only clinically normal tortoises, no or minimal differences in albumin were found by BCG, AGE, or capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE), although some seasonal changes were observed. 29,30 For species with prealbumin and alpha 1 migrating proteins, the precise quantitation of albumin by EPH can be difficult, and that this issue could be additive to the differences seen between BCG and AGE. Overall, however, it should be appreciated that, in the assessment of any avian and reptile species, seasonal influences and subclinical inflammation are possible; therefore, the BCG method should not be used at any time.…”