Horseback Research Articles

Joint Stress Analysis of the Navicular Bone of the Horse and Its Implications for Navicular Disease.

The horse's navicular bone is located inside the hoof between the deep flexor tendon (DDFT) and the middle and end phalanges. The aim of this study was to calculate the stress distribution across the articular surface of the navicular bone and to investigate how morphological variations of the navicular bone affect the joint forces and stress distribution. Joint forces normalised to the DDFT force were calculated from force and moment equilibria from morphological parameters determined on mediolateral radiographs. The stress distribution on the articular surface was determined from the moment equilibrium of the stress vectors around the centre of pressure. The ratio of the proximal to the distal moment arms of the DDFT, as well as the proximo-distal position and extent of the navicular bone, individually or in combination, have a decisive influence on the position and magnitude of the joint force and the stress distribution. If the moment arms are equal and the bone is more proximal, the joint force vector originates from the centre of the joint surface and the joint load is evenly distributed. However, in a more distal position with a longer distal moment arm, the joint force is close to the distal edge, where the joint stress reaches its peak. Degenerative navicular disease, which causes lameness and pathological changes in the distal portion of the bone in sport horses, is likely to be more severe in horses with wedge-shaped navicular bones than in horses with square bones.

Detection of methandienone and its metabolites in equine urine, plasma and hair following a multidose oral administration.

Methandienone is an anabolic-androgenic steroid that is prohibited in equine sports due to its potential performance enhancing properties. Metabolism and detection of methandienone in equine urine have been investigated comprehensively in literature; however, there is a limited knowledge about its metabolites in equine plasma and no information about its detection in equine hair. Following a multi-dose oral administration of methandienone to two Thoroughbred horses, 17-epimethandienone, methyltestosterone, two mono-hydroxylated, two di-hydroxylated and three 17α-methylandrostanetriol metabolites were detected in plasma. The majority of these were present as free analytes, whilst the mono-hydroxylated metabolites and one isomer of 17α-methylandrostanetriol were partially conjugated. Estimated peak concentrations of methandienone were 6,000 and 11,100 pg/ml; meanwhile, they were 25.4 and 40.5pg/ml for methyltestosterone. The most abundant analyte in the post-administration plasma samples of both horses was the mono-hydroxylated metabolite; however, the parent compound provided the longest detection (up to 96 h). Screening analysis of hair enabled the detection of methandienone in mane hair samples only, for up to 3months. Its mono- and di-hydroxylated metabolites were detected with greater peak responses for up to 6months post-administration in both mane and tail samples, showing that these metabolites could be better analytical targets for hair analysis when administered orally. A follow-up methodology with an extensive wash procedure confirmed the presence of methandienone and its metabolites in a number of post-administration hair samples. Final wash samples were also analysed to assess the degree of internal incorporation (via bloodstream) against possible external deposition (via sweat/sebum).

Conflict behaviour in Icelandic horses during elite competition

Sport horse welfare is currently under scrutiny. Among other issues, it has been pointed out that behavioural signs of discomfort are frequently overlooked during training and competitions. Previous studies reported a relatively high prevalence of these types of behaviour (e.g., tail swishing, mouth opening – typically jointly labelled ‘conflict behaviour’) in elite level dressage and show jumping warmblood horses. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of conflict behaviour in Icelandic horses competing at elite level in breed-specific gait competitions. We used online video recordings from a competition in Iceland, including two different competitions (MD22, Fivegait F1: n = 25, and Loose-rein Tölt T2: n = 24 participating horses). The recordings were viewed at slow speed (x 0.25) enabling a detailed recording of the horses’ behavioural expressions. Mouth opening was the most frequently observed behaviour and occurred more in pace and tölt (Fivegait F1, P<0.001). In T2, mouth opening was more frequent in short-rein tölt than during loose-rein tölt (P<0.001). Sudden head movements, tail swishing and undesired gait changes also occurred, but less frequently. An elongated upper lip was observed in 12 of the 24 participating horses in T2, but only in short-rein tölt, suggesting that upper lip elongation is related to rein tension. We conclude that mouth movements (mouth opening and an elongated upper lip) are common behavioural expressions in Icelandic horses competing at elite level. Further studies are required to reveal the significance of these behaviours in terms of horse welfare.

Volunteer Engagement within Equine Assisted Services.

This study examines the effect of volunteering within a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl) premiere accredited center by exploring the experiences of volunteers leading horses in adaptive riding lessons. Adaptive Riding lessons are horseback riding lessons for individuals ages four through the lifespan, with special needs, varying from cognitive, physical, social-emotional, or other challenges. Volunteers directly impact the rider-horse bond by increasing accessibility to horseback riding for individuals with disabilities, fostering a meaningful bond between the rider and horse. The research questions were as follows: (1) do saliva measures of cortisol and alpha-amylase (stress), and oxytocin (affiliative bonding) change over time for volunteers; and (2) how satisfied are volunteers with volunteering for Equine Assisted Services (EAS)? Forty-one volunteers participated in Reining in Anxiety, an intervention combining adaptive riding and cognitive behavioral therapy. Physiological data (i.e., pooled saliva, saliva combined from various glands throughout the mouth, resting under the tongue prior to collection) were collected pre/post riding session at four time points during the 10-session intervention, measuring oxytocin, cortisol, and alpha-amylase. Post-intervention, volunteers completed a survey about their experiences as volunteers and as participants in the study. All saliva samples were collected successfully. There was a non-significant, positive trend in oxytocin and alpha-amylase, while cortisol remained level. The responses in the survey suggested that volunteers perceive their role positively, with nuanced experiences of a sense of responsibility to ensure safety, and enjoyment in assisting the riders. Volunteers are vital to the safety of the rider and horse. While their perceived and internalized responsibility is evidenced by an increase in stress (e.g., cortisol remaining level and an increase in alpha-amylase), it is not necessarily negative stress, as there is simultaneously affiliative bonding expressed (oxytocin). The complex emotions and experiences of volunteers are important to understand to create meaningful, sustainable volunteer engagement. This is particularly important in the EAS industry, which is reliant on volunteerism.

Substantial variability exists in the interpretation of survey radiographs among equine veterinarians.

Radiographs are a common diagnostic tool utilised during pre-purchase examinations, yet differences surround their interpretation among equine veterinarians. (1) To determine veterinarians' subjective impressions of a spectrum of radiographic abnormalities regarding suitability for purchase; (2) To determine how veterinarians' years in practice, primary discipline or board certification status influence their subjective impression of radiographic abnormalities, and (3) To determine how horses' discipline, current level of work (working at intended level vs. future prospect) and buyer intent (sell vs. retain ownership) influence veterinarians' subsequent recommendation. Worldwide electronic survey of veterinary professionals. Four radiographic series of navicular bones, tarsi, and stifles, representing varying degrees of pathological change (normal, mild, moderate and marked) were presented. Respondents (n = 211) graded their level of concern from 1 (no concern) to 10 (very concerned) based on the radiographs and case scenarios presented. Overall, as the grade of pathological change increased for each anatomical location, so did the level of veterinarian concern, but a wide range of answers were submitted for all grades of pathology. Board certified practitioners had a higher level of concern over marked radiographic changes of the navicular bone for both western performance and English sport horses as well as prospect horses (mean = 7.2 vs. 6.1; P = 0.009; 95% CI for difference = [0.3, 2.0]). Board certified respondents had a lower level of concern over marked radiographic changes of the tarsus regardless of the performance status of the horse (mean = 7.1 vs. 8.0; P = 0.008; 95% CI for difference = [-1.5, -0.2]). Western performance horse practitioners had a lower level of concern over mild radiographic changes of the tarsus regardless of the performance status of the horse (mean = 3.3 vs. 4.2; P = 0.009; 95% CI for difference = [-1.6, -0.2]). Only one example of each pathological grade per anatomical region was presented. On survey radiographs, the perceived clinical relevance of radiographic abnormalities among equine practitioners differs widely, making purchase recommendations highly variable.

Electrophysiological features of bioelectrical activity of the horse brain

Purpose: to study the bioelectrical activity of the brain and determine the parameters of electroencephalograms in sports and untrained horses.Materials and methods. The object of the study were horses aged from 2 to 20 years in the amount of 150 heads. The animals were in active training and were also used for rental training in horse riding; their average weight was 550.78 kg; the breeds were Oryol Trotter, Russian Trotter, American Trotter and Hanoverian. During EEG recording, horses were restrained using a halter at the junctions. Experiments were carried out in the morning or afternoon, 1 hour before feeding/training or 1 hour after. EEG registration was carried out with patch electrodes in 6 unipolar leads using a special patented Ippolitova / Gauss helmet for recording EEG in animals, the electrodes on which are located along the projections of different lobes of the brain, which allows non-invasively, without the use of sedatives and shaving hair, to record the electrical activity of the brain . EEG recording continued for 10-15 minutes. We assessed brain rhythms using the following indicators: Rhythm severity index (RSI) – the degree of manifestation of the rhythm, the percentage of time during which a given rhythm is recorded (%). Frequency – the number of complete oscillations performed per unit of time, sec. (Hz). Amplitude is the largest deviation (from the average) value of a quantity, the range of oscillations.Results. As a result of the research and analysis of the obtained EEG data, waves of bioelectrical activity of the brain in horses were established in the following ranges: alpha rhythm (α-rhythm) – 7.1 – 13 Hz, amplitude up to 100 µV; beta-1 rhythm (low-frequency β-1 rhythm) – 13.1 – 25 Hz, amplitude – 3-5 µV; beta-2 rhythm (high-frequency β-2 rhythm) – 25.1 – 40 Hz, amplitude – 3-5 µV; delta rhythm (δ rhythm) – 0.3 – 4 Hz, amplitude up to 40 µV; theta rhythm (Ѳ-rhythm) – 4.1 – 7 Hz, amplitude about 30 µV; gamma rhythm (γ rhythm) – above 40.1 µV. When analyzing EEG rhythms in animals, the most pronounced spontaneous brain activity at rest in the horses studied is the delta rhythm in all leads and hemispheres. We observe oscillations with a frequency of 0.3–4 Hz and an amplitude of up to 40 μV. The waveform is regular, sinus. Such oscillations represent the delta rhythm.

Chiropractic effects on stride parameters and heart rate during exercise in sport horses.

Equine veterinarians performing chiropractic treatments are frequently asked to evaluate and treat sound horses to improve their performance and address pain associated with the axial skeleton. Studies describing the effects and mechanisms of chiropractic treatments in horses without overt lameness are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of chiropractic treatments on stride rate, length, symmetry, heart rate and rider-perceived quality of the ridden work in sport horses. A blind randomised controlled trial with crossover design. Thirty-eight horses ridden in the hunter-jumper discipline were enrolled. Exercise tests were recorded before and after chiropractic or sham treatment while horses were wearing a fitness tracker. Stride length, rate and symmetry, heart rate and the perceived quality of the ridden work were compared. There was a difference in the qualitative assessment of the ridden work by riders between treatments (odds ratio 33.8, 95% CI [4.68, 458.71], p < 0.01). Stride length, rate, symmetry and heart rate were not different between treatments. The quantitative outcomes measured may not be sensitive enough to detect changes that improve the ridden work. Terrain, weather and rider were not standard across horses making small changes difficult to detect. Riders participating in a blind randomised controlled trial perceived a positive effect of chiropractic treatments on the quality of the ridden work. There were no differences in stride length, stride rate, stride symmetry or heart rate. The mechanisms, indications and potential benefits of chiropractic treatments in horses need further study.

From stable to stable: how does stress influence the first line of immune defense in sport horses

Stressful factors, including physical exercise, can influence the body’s defense mechanisms and can be involved in the etiology and evolution of systemic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of various stressors to which sport horses are commonly subjected on the innate immune system. For this, four experimental protocols were designed including different animals, namely: (a) resting horses subjected to everyday medium level exercise (n = 18, average age = 7 years, range: 6 to 11 years), (b) medium course transportation, where the distance of one-way trips represented 270 km (n = 8, average age = 7 years, range: 6 to 9 years), (c) a long course, with a 561 km one-way distance (n = 5, average age = 8.2, range: 7 to 11 years) and (d) pre- and post-competition investigations (n = 9, average age = 7 years, range: 6 to 11). Blood was sampled on heparine (50 UI/ml) before and after the workout or transportation. The phagocytic activity of leukocytes was measured by a carbon particle inclusion test, along with total immunoglobulin/opsonin levels (Ig) (24% Zn sulphate precipitation test) and circulating immune complexes (4.2% polyethylene glycol precipitation test). The results were statistically interpreted by use of Micrososft Excel program (Student’s t test). The various types of stress differently influenced the equine athletes. While a moderate daily exercise did not substantially influence the humoral and cellular effectors of innate immunity, transportation exerted stronger beneficial effects based on the distance to the competition site. As a fast acting antimicrobial mechanism, the phagocytosis underwent the most pronounced changes, positively influenced mainly by the short course transportation. While the transportation stress enhanced phagocytosis, the competition decreased the potential of the cells to react, without significantly influencing their numbers. The experiment suggested that management measures, such as age-tailored exercise and maternal care and diet could help in alleviating stress from stable to stable, during the competition season, thus improving animal welfare and allowing a better health forecast.

The hazards of the pastoralist lifestyle: Evidence from postcranial fractures in Middle Bronze and Early Iron Age populations of the Forest‐Steppe Altai, Russia

AbstractA global comparison has shown that subsistence‐specific practices influenced the risk of postcranial fractures in prehistoric hunter‐gatherers and agriculturalists. Much less is known about pastoralists in this regard. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence and patterns of postcranial injuries of herders in the Forest‐Steppe Altai, Russia. Skeletal samples associated with the Andronovo Culture of the Middle Bronze Age, and Staroaleyka and Kamen Cultures of the Early Iron Age were studied. Long bones of 595 adults were examined for evidence of antemortem and perimortem injuries. Fracture frequencies were calculated per individual and per skeletal element, and the differences were evaluated statistically. While assessing per individual, the relative risk with a 95% confidence interval was calculated as well. All of the observed fractures were healed. This study suggests that pastoralists sustained not only traumatic, but also stress injuries. There were sex‐related differences in the rates, patterns, and location of the injuries. In the males, the main reason of fractures could have been high‐velocity incidents during horseback riding and using horse‐drawn vehicles. In the females, the majority of the injuries were possibly associated with accidents when walking (short falls and twists of ankle) and milking. Females of the Staroaleyka Culture sustained fractures of the limb bones significantly more often than those of the Kamen Culture, probably as a result of differences in their daily activities. In terms of the total fracture rates, the Forest‐Steppe Altai pastoralists and their neighbors seem to have surpassed low‐intensity agriculturalists but lag behind hunter‐gatherers and high‐intensity agriculturalists. More datasets are needed to further elucidate the association between postcranial fracture risk and subsistence‐specific practices and environments within the Eurasian Steppe, where pastoralism has been the predominant form of economic activity for millennia.

Brief report: Impact of a horseback riding lesson on youth well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, children and adolescents were at a high risk of experiencing anxiety and stress which undoubtedly had a negative impact on their psychological well-being. While research has shown that canine interactions during this time were beneficial for young people’s well-being, the impact of horse-human activities has not been examined outside of at-risk youth and populations with psychological and/or physical conditions. This pilot study examined whether a recreational horseback riding lesson held during the height of the pandemic improved the well-being of non-at-risk, neurotypical youth. Using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule for Children (Ebesutani et al., 2012 [36]), the mood and stress of beginner/novice riders (n = 16) at a local stable were evaluated before and after the lesson. The Human-Animal Interaction Scale (Fournier et al., 2016 [38]) was also used to assess the quality of the horse-rider interaction to examine its potential impact on the efficacy of riding in improving psychological well-being. Results found a significant increase in positive affect and decrease in negative affect after the lesson compared to before. However, these effects appear to be driven by the group of riders that had a higher quality interaction with their horse. Overall, this study provides initial support for the efficacy of horseback riding for improving well-being in neurotypical, non-at-risk children, and demonstrates that the quality of the interaction between the horse and rider likely plays an important role.

Hypoallergenic animals: A promise of hope for allergic patients?

Furry pets are beloved companion animals; horse riding is a popular leisure activity. So-called hypoallergenic animals have gained high interest as sensitization to animal dander and allergy to furry animals are widespread. Allergen immunotherapy to furry animals is still limited, and allergen avoidance in addition to symptomatic pharmaceutical treatment is often the only available option. Patients with an existing allergy to furry animals or with an atopic background are seeking for a hypoallergenic alternative. This review summarizes current knowledge and discusses future strategies.

Men and Women Competing on Equal Terms? A Cross-Sectional Study of Young Women About the Impact of Menstrual Concerns on Equestrian Sport Participation

In equestrian sport, women are popularly thought to compete on equal terms with men. This ideal has been critiqued by studies documenting how women’s participation is impacted by gendered equestrian cultures and society more broadly. However, one physiological process has been overlooked—menstruation. This is the first study to focus specifically on the impacts of menstruation and menstrual concerns on women’s participation in horse sport and to locate those concerns within broader equestrian traditions of attire and discourses of control. The authors conducted a cross-sectional survey of 328 female riding members of Pony Club Australia aged 10–17 years. Findings challenge the idea of equestrian as a sport where men and women compete “on equal terms.” In particular, they illustrate how traditional dress codes of white-/light-colored riding pants exacerbate menstrual concerns, limit/prevent participation, and pose safety concerns due to distraction. The majority (80%) of participants supported changing the formal uniform to allow darker-colored riding pants. However, longstanding equestrian associations between white pants, prestige, and respect are a barrier to the adoption and therefore normalization of period-friendly attire. While discriminatory rules or standards need to be revised, they are insufficient to challenge entrenched gendered, socio-historical, and esthetic constructions of some organized sports. The authors therefore recommend that rule changes be supported by other practical and educational initiatives necessary to create period-friendly cultures for equestrian sport.

Natural Resources for Adventure Tourism in the Western Region of Mongolia

The tourism industry has become one of the major economic sectors and has been contributing significantly to the socioeconomic development of the country. In the recent years, special interest tourism which is driven by one’s personal interest, passion and novelty has grown dramatically among the various types of tourism. Out of all special interest tourism types, we selected and researched adventure tourism. The range of adventure tourism services that are currently being developed in Mongolia is limited, not particularly inventive and lacks the ability to take the full advantage of accessible opportunities. This kind of tourism is restricted to only a few types of activities, such as horse and camel riding, cycling, hiking and mountain climbing. According to the researchers, the majority of travelers are more interested in skill-based adventure tourism in remote areas and less skill-based adventure tourism in well-known tourist hotspots. The natural resources found in the western region of Mongolia are uncommon in other countries of the world, which is advantageous for the development of adventure tourism. Nevertheless, it is necessary to study these natural resources carefully to identify opportunities particularly for the development of adventure tourism. Natural resources for adventure tourism are categorized into two primary groups: land and water including elements such as mountains, rocks and sand dunes, rivers and lakes. In this manuscript we present indicators for identifying mountains, each element’s potential. As a result, potential natural resources for the growth of adventure tourism industry in the western region of Mongolia were defined.

Exploring the Potential of Adventure Tourism in Mongolia’s Eastern Region: A Resource-Based Approach

The tourism industry has emerged as a significant economic sector, playing a pivotal role in the socio-economic advancement of the nation. In recent years, special interest tourism has experienced rapid growth among various forms of tourism. This type of travel is characterized by individuals pursuing their unique interests, aspirations, and desire for novelty. Among the various types of special interest tourism, we have chosen adventure tourism. Currently, the range of adventure tourism services emerging in Mongolia is constrained, exhibiting limited innovation and failing to capitalize fully on available prospects. This form of tourism is confined to a select few activities, including horseback riding, cycling, hiking, camel riding, and mountain climbing. According to researchers, the majority of tourists exhibit a preference for skill-based adventure tourism in remote regions, as opposed to less skill-intensive adventure tourism in popular tourist destinations. The presence of abundant natural resources in the eastern region of Mongolia constitutes a distinct advantage for the advancement of adventure tourism. Nonetheless, a thorough examination of these natural resources is imperative to ascertain their suitability for the development of tourism, particularly adventure tourism. Adventure tourism natural resources can be categorized into two primary groups: land resources, encompassing mountains, rocks, sand dunes, steppes, and forest areas, and water resources, including rivers and lakes. Each of these two groups and their seven elemental resources exhibit distinct characteristics and indicators. This article delineates the indicators used to assess each element of these resources, presents the outcomes of research conducted to gauge their potential level (corresponding level), and highlights select findings from studies aimed at identifying natural resources for the advancement of adventure tourism in the eastern region of Mongolia.

Termografia infravermelha como ferramenta na avaliação do bem-estar de equinos manejados soltos ou estabulados

ABSTRACT This study aims to describe the effects of stabling on thermographic characteristics of adult equine limbs, to compare the level of animal welfare between horses kept loose and those under continuous stabling and to investigate whether the Infrared Thermography (IRT) can be an effective tool to evaluate the welfare of equines. 24 gelding horses of Brazilian Sport Horse breed, aged between 5 and 9 years and weighing 500 ± 50kg were used in a 6-week trial. They were divided into 2 groups: 1) Paddock - equines kept in paddocks and ridden exclusively on urban patrol; 2) Stall - animals that ridden exclusively on urban patrol, but were kept in continuous stabling, housed in 12m² with concrete and bedless stables. Every animal was evaluated once a week over six weeks. Animal behavior and temperature of the eyes and distal extremities of the limbs as well as blood samples were collected. The confined horses showed stereotyped behavior and higher serum cortisol, indicating lower animal welfare when compared to those managed in a pasture. Limb IRT showed predictive potential for identifying chronic stress as the discriminating analysis showed 74.5% hits while eye temperature was not efficient for this purpose.

Intussuscepção cecocecal após administração do dipropionato de imidocarb em equino - relato de caso

ABSTRACT The intussusception of the large intestine in adult horses has been poorly reported. The aim of this study is to report a case of an acute abdomen due to cecocolic intussusception in a Brazilian Sport Horse mare, aged eight, after the administration of imidocarb dipropionate. The drug used for the treatment of piroplasmosis caused a state of dysmotility in the large intestine and subsequent abdominal discomfort. Surgical intervention was necessary, performed through a median celiotomy, opting for partial typhlectomy due to tissue and circulatory compromise. The postoperative evolution was satisfactory and without serious complications, with a good short- and long-term prognosis, as the patient continued to perform its athletic functions.

Videodermoscopic analysis of the skin of purebred arabian horses and polish sport horses.

Videodermoscopy is a modern method of skin examination that significantly facilitates diagnosis. The purpose of the study was to determine and compare the characteristic features of the skin and its derivatives for Purebred Arabian and Polish Sports horses. The study was conducted in the winter of 2018/2019, with written consent obtained from the horses’ owners before examinations. The study involved 33 healthy horses not previously used for breeding, consisting of 21 purebred Arabian mares and twelve clinically healthy Polish Sports horses (SP). Videodermoscopic evaluations were performed of seven selected areas of the body: the forehead, mane, neck, chest, flank, rump, and tail. For the dermoscopic examination, an Italian Video-Dermascope 7 (Medici Medical SRL with 3 VIDIX 5Mpx camera and VX1 – Contact type cap Ø 3.5 cm) was used. The Olympus cellSens specialized software was used to analyze microscopic images and perform measurements. The comparison of hair thickness showed significant differences between the two groups: in most of the assessed body areas, the hair thickness was greater for the Arabian horses than for the Polish Sports horses. The hair thickness ranged from 52.70 μm on the chest to 87.45 μm on the mane in the Arabian horses and from 30.18 μm on the flank to 47.33 μm on the rump in the SP horses. In conclusion, the breed of the horse is an important factor that must be taken into consideration in both qualitative and quantitative evaluations of the skin and its derivatives.

Adaptação óssea ao exercício em cavalos árabes praticantes de enduro equestre de 120-160 km - análise quantitativa e funcional

ABSTRACT Seeking the improvement of equine sports medicine, the present work aimed to determine quantitative data from different bone structures. Therefore, the objective of this work was to quantify the thickness of the cortex in a comparative way to determine the bone densitometry and also the bone density of the bone trabeculae of the spongy substance of the radius, calcaneus, and metacarpal III bones of horses practicing equestrian enduro long-distance running tests. Six thoroughbred Arabian horses and long-distance competitors (120 and 160km) were evaluated for metacarpal III, calcaneus, and accessory carpal bone. Long bones have a different micro functional structure than short bones. The sites that received and dissipated energy varied in distal, proximal epiphysis, and diaphysis according to the bone. The calcaneus and accessory carpal bone had a lower transverse thickness of the compact substance and greater density of the same, this increase was related to the improvement of local resistance. The density of the spongy substance varied with different bones. Thus, it was concluded that stress directly influenced the quantity and quality of the compact and spongy substance.

Compulsory vaccination against Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) infection – A critical appraisal of the compulsory vaccination stipulated by horse sport organisations in Germany

Compulsory vaccination against Equine Herpes Virus-1 (EHV-1) infection – A critical appraisal of the compulsory vaccination stipulated by horse sport organisations in Germany

Molecular Analysis of Alternative Spliced Transcripts of Equine Pleckstrin Homology and RhoGEF Domain Containing G1 (PLEKHG1) gene

Since horse industry get bigger with horse racing and horse riding, athletic performance become most important trait on horses, but the molecular analysis and regulatory pathway studies remain insufficient for evaluation and prediction of horse athletic abilities. In our previous study, we conducted RNA-sequencing analysis with muscle and blood samples by exercise in Thoroughbreds. Through RNA-sequencing, we identified Pleckstrin Homology and RhoGEF Domain Containing G1 (PLEKHG1) gene expressed differentially by alternative spliced isoforms in skeletal muscle during exercise. In this study, we conducted reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to validate two isoforms of equine PLEKHG1 transcripts (PLEKHG1a, PLEKHG1b), and cloned the transcripts to confirm the sequences. Additionally, we validated expression pattern of PLEKHG1a (long form of transcript) and PLEKHG1b (short form of transcript) in horse tissue by quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Prediction of protein structure of these isoforms revealed two putative phosphorylation sites at the amino acid sequences encoded in exon 7, which is deleted in PLEKHG1b. Expression pattern of PLEKHG1a and PLEKHG1b shows cross expressed pattern as RNA-sequencing data. PLEKHG1a increased after exercise whereas PLEKHG1b decreased after exercise. Collectively, it is assumed that the expression patterns of PLEKHG1a and PLEKHG1b transcripts would be involved in regulation of myogenic differentiation and myogenic proliferation through the Ras signaling pathway. Further study should be necessary to uncover biological function(s) and significance of the alternative splicing isoforms in equine skeletal muscle