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Differences in bone turnover markers and injury risks between local and international horses: A Victorian Spring
Babatunde A Ayodele1, Charles N Pagel1, Eleanor J Mackie1
1Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|April 18, 2024
Summary
International racehorses experience higher musculoskeletal injury (MSI) risks after long-distance travel. Persistent high cortisol and bone formation markers may indicate horses at risk for severe MSI, aiding prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Equine Sports Medicine
- Veterinary Science
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) are a significant concern in international racehorses.
- Understanding bone turnover differences post-transport is crucial for MSI prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare bone turnover markers and MSI risk between local and international horses post-long-distance air travel.
- To identify potential biomarkers for predicting MSI risk in travelling horses.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving 69 international and 79 local horses.
- Blood samples analyzed for bone turnover markers (OCN, CTXI), stress (cortisol), inflammation (SAA), and circadian rhythm (melatonin).
- Multivariable regression models used to assess associations between markers, travel, and MSI.
Main Results:
- International horses showed higher initial cortisol levels post-transport, which normalized later.
- Osteocalcin (OCN) was lower in international horses at the second timepoint.
- MSI prevalence was significantly higher in international horses (26%) compared to local horses (8%), with all severe injuries occurring in international horses.
Conclusions:
- Most horses exhibited minimal changes in stress and bone turnover markers within two weeks of travel.
- Persistent high cortisol and evidence of net bone formation post-travel may identify racehorses at elevated risk for severe MSI.
- Bone turnover markers alone have limited sensitivity for detecting localized bone changes in this context.
