Plasma concentrations of inflammatory markers in previously laminitic ponies

Area of Science:

• Equine Health
• Veterinary Immunology
• Animal Physiology

Background:

• Pasture-associated laminitis predisposition mechanisms are unclear, though chronic inflammation is suspected.
• Understanding inflammatory profiles is crucial for identifying at-risk animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare inflammatory profiles between previously laminitic (PL) and non-laminitic (NL) ponies.
• To assess seasonal variations (late spring vs. winter) in inflammatory markers.

Main Methods:

• Blood samples were collected from PL (n=38-42) and NL (n=39-41) ponies in late spring and winter.
• Assayed plasma concentrations of adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor-α, serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, insulin, triglyceride, fibrinogen, IL-17, IL-4, and interferon-γ.
• Used multivariate analysis to identify factors associated with cytokine levels.

Main Results:

• Previously laminitic ponies had significantly lower plasma adiponectin concentrations than control ponies.
• Plasma triglyceride concentrations were higher in previously laminitic ponies.
• Seasonal and gender differences were observed in fibrinogen, serum amyloid A, haptoglobin, IL-4, and insulin levels.

Conclusions:

• Reduced adiponectin in previously laminitic ponies suggests a diminished anti-inflammatory capacity.
• Recurrent laminitis may be linked to reduced anti-inflammatory capacity rather than a proinflammatory state.
• Season and gender significantly influence various inflammatory mediators.