Regulatory Mechanisms of Yili Horses During an 80 km Race Based on Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Analyses

Equine endurance exercise induces physiological changes that alter metabolism and molecular pathways to maintain balance after intense physical activity. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms remain under debate. Identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differential metabolites (DMs) associated with equine endurance is essential for elucidating these regulatory mechanisms. This study collected blood samples from six Yili horses before and after an 80 km race and conducted transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses, yielding 722 DEGs and 256 DMs. These DEGs were primarily enriched in pathways related to amino acid biosynthesis, cellular senescence, and lipid metabolism/atherosclerosis. The DMs were predominantly enriched in fatty acid biosynthesis and the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. The integrative transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses of DEGs and DMs highlight functional changes during the endurance race. The findings offer a holistic understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying equine endurance and a solid foundation for formulating training programs to optimize horse performance in endurance racing.