Equine lamellar energy metabolism studied using tissue microdialysis.

This research aimed to develop a minimally invasive technique called lamellar microdialysis that can measure normal lamellar energy metabolite concentrations in horses over a span of 24 hours. The outcome suggests the technique was well tolerated and might help in understanding the role of energy failure in equine laminitis, a disease affecting the horse’s hoof.

Introduction and Objective

• In this study, the researchers focused on equine laminitis, a disease affecting the feet of horses, impairing their ability to stand and walk. The disease is believed to be caused by problems in lamellar energy metabolism.
• The innovative technique introduced by this research – lamellar tissue microdialysis – is proposed as a possible tool for monitoring the energy balance in the lamellar tissue over time, helping in the identification, understanding, and control of laminitis.

Methodology

• For the study, microdialysis probes were placed into the lamellar dermis or the sublamellar dermis of horses’ hooves. The samples were then continuously perfused for a 24-hour study duration and measured every 2 hours for glucose, lactate, pyruvate, urea, and glycerol concentrations.
• A comparative study was run simultaneously by placing probes into the skin dermis. The lamellar dermis was further compared with the sublamellar dermis by placing and sampling probes in the feet of two horses over 4 hours.
• Post-probe placement, horses were monitored for lameness and evaluated clinically or subjected to histological evaluation of the probe site.

Results

• It was found that probe placement did not have any harmful effects, and the histological response was mild. Fluid recovery and metabolite concentrations were stable for the duration of 24 hours.
• Low levels of glucose and pyruvate and a higher lactate to glucose ratio were observed in the lamellar dermis as compared to the sublamellar dermis and skin. This result suggested lower perfusion and increased glucose consumption in the lamellar dermis.

Conclusion

• The lamellar tissue microdialysis technique was well tolerated by the horses and showed promise for identifying and understanding energy failure in the pathogenesis of laminitis. This technique’s successful implementation could aid in gaining insights into laminitis, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment methods for the debilitating condition.