Physiology of the protein digestion in preruminant calves: a review

Abstract

Literature data on the main physiological aspects of the protein digestion in nonruminant calves was reviewed. Emphasis was given on the esophageal groove action, abomasum and small intestine digestion, action of several enzymes, and gastric secretion components present in each of these compartments, as well as the digesta flow effect on protein digestion.