Changes in the saliva proteome analysed by gel-proteomics in horses diagnosed with equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) at diagnosis and after successful treatment.

This research article investigates changes in horses’ saliva proteins associated with equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS), both before and after treatment, and proposes these protein changes as potential biomarkers for detecting and monitoring the syndrome.

Objective and Methodology

• The study’s primary objective was to identify changes in horses’ saliva protein (salivary proteome) profiles associated with EGUS before and after treatment, using a method called gel-proteomics. The researchers also aimed to detect potential biomarkers that could assist in detecting and monitoring the response to EGUS treatments in horses.
• Saliva samples were taken from nine horses with EGUS before and after their treatment, with nine other healthy horses serving as controls.
• The saliva samples were subjected to two types of gel electrophoresis, a method used to separate and identify proteins, namely one-dimensional (1DE) and two-dimensional (2DE). Mass spectrometry was then utilized to identify the proteins that showed significant changes.

Findings

• The researchers found EGUS horses exhibited increased levels of certain proteins, including adenosine deaminase (ADA), triosephosphate isomerase, keratins, and immuno-globulin heavy constant mu.
• Conversely, EGUS horses also showed decreased levels of other proteins, such as carbonic anhydrase, albumin and prolactin-induced protein.
• The EGUS horses also displayed lower levels of a protein called thioredoxin (TRX) after successful treatment.
• These changes in protein levels are thought to reflect various physiological and pathological processes involved in EGUS, including activation of the immune system, a decrease in stomach defense mechanisms, and inflammation.

Implications and Conclusions

• The study concluded that horses with EGUS exhibit significant protein changes in their saliva compared to healthy horses, which can be detected using gel-proteomics. Furthermore, these changes alter following successful treatment.
• The researchers believe these protein changes could serve as potential biomarkers for detecting EGUS and monitoring the response to treatment. Such biomarkers could significantly improve diagnostic and treatment strategies for this widespread disease in horses.