Genetic analysis of haematological and plasma biochemical parameters in the Spanish purebred horse exercised on a treadmill.

The research aimed to establish reference values for various blood and biochemical parameters in Spanish purebred horse undergoing treadmill exercise. It also sought to determine hereditability and genetic correlations amongst these parameters. The results are hoped to inform future guidelines for measuring horse athletic ability and selecting suitable animals based on these parameters.

Objective of the Research

The primary objective of this study was to:

• Establish baseline values for various blood and biochemical parameters in young Spanish purebred (Andalusian, SPB) horses.
• Determine the heritability and genetic correlations of these parameters.

By achieving these objectives, researchers aim to set objective guidelines that can be used for improving the athletic ability of these horses and assist in the selection process.

Methodology

The study was conducted on 94 young male SPB horses aged approximately 4.22 ± 2.27 years. They performed an increasing intensity exercise test on an inclined treadmill with speeds ranging from 4 to 7 meters per second.
During the stages of exercise, the following parameters were assessed:

• Blood cell counts (red and white, neutrophils, lymphocytes)
• Haematocrit and haemoglobin levels
• Biochemical concentrations such as lactate, uric acid, creatinine and total plasma proteins
• Enzyme activities including lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate transaminase, and creatine-quinase

Results and Conclusion

The researchers were able to:

• Establish reference values for the evaluated parameters at each stage of the exercise test
• Show that all the parameters analyzed featured medium-high hereditability and high repeatability

In conclusion, they suggest the results could provide a basis for setting measurement standards for evaluating the athletic ability of SPB horses. Additionally, the findings could prove instrumental in the selection process of these animals based on these parameters.