Actions of BW540C in an equine model of acute inflammation: a preliminary study.

This research conducted a preliminary examination of the anti-inflammatory drug BW540C, within an equine model of acute non-immune inflammation. The study concluded that higher doses of the drug may be needed to produce beneficial effects.

Explaining the Research Design

The scientists created an equine model of acute non-immune inflammation. This was done to study both the inflammatory process and the effects of new anti-inflammatory medications. They accomplished this by:

• Placing five polyester sponge strips, soaked in a sterilized 2% carrageenin solution, inside subcutaneous pouches on the necks of conscious ponies.
• Performing the procedure under local anesthesia.
• Removing the strips serially and collecting the exudate for examination, focusing on the cellular, biochemical, and mediator factors of the localized inflammation.
• Using infrared thermometry to monitor the heat generated by the inflamed area.

Observed Inflammatory Response

Following the induction of inflammation, they observed:

• The eicosanoids 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha, thromboxane B2, and leukotriene B4 peaked at 9 hours post-inflammation.
• The highest concentrations of leukocytes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and total protein were found at 24 hours post-inflammation.
• The skin temperature at the lesion site increased by around 4 degrees Celsius for the entire 24 hour period.

Effect of Anti-Inflammatory Agent BW540C

Next, they administered BW540C orally at a dose of 20 mg/kg to study its anti-inflammatory effects. They found that the medication:

• Did not impact the infiltration of leukocytes.
• Did not influence the concentrations of protein, LDH, and eicosanoids in the exudate.
• Did lower serum levels of thromboxane B2.
• Increased temperature rises in the skin of treated animals.

Concluding Thoughts

The researchers concluded that the current dosage of BW540C provided insufficient anti-inflammatory action. It is suggested that higher dosages may be necessary to achieve clinically useful effects in horses with inflammation.