Training Program Intensity Induces an Acute Phase Response in Clinically Healthy Horses

Area of Science:

• Equine physiology
• Exercise immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Exercise induces physiological and hematochemical changes in horses.
• Stress is known to elevate acute phase proteins (APPs).
• The impact of training intensity on APP response to exercise requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate changes in APP levels in horses after a simulated exercise event.
• To determine if training program intensity affects the acute phase response to exercise.
• To assess the concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin, albumin, total proteins, iron, and fibrinogen post-exercise.

Main Methods:

• Twenty Saddle Italian horses were divided into intense (Group A) and moderate (Group B) training programs.
• Horses underwent a simulated show jumping exercise event.
• Blood samples were collected at rest, and 12 and 24 hours post-exercise for analysis.

Main Results:

• Simulated exercise significantly influenced circulating levels of SAA, fibrinogen, and iron starting 12 hours post-exercise.
• An acute phase-like response was observed.
• Training intensity affected the response, with significantly different SAA values between groups.

Conclusions:

• Jumping exercise in horses induces an acute phase response.
• Training intensity plays a role in modulating this exercise-induced response.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying exercise-activated acute phase response in athletic horses.