Inflammatory mediators in equine synovial fluid.

The research focuses on evaluating the concentration of inflammatory mediators in the synovial fluid (joint fluid) of horses, comparing normal joints with those affected by degenerative joint disease and chip fractures.

Methods

• The researchers employed different assay methods including enzyme immunoassay and radioimmunoassays to measure the concentration of specific inflammatory mediators, namely prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, and leukotriene B4 (LTB4).
• Measurements were performed on synovial fluid samples obtained from the middle carpal joints of 10 horses considered ‘normal’, and from 30 carpal or antebrachiocarpal joints in horses suffering from degenerative joint disease and chip fractures.

Results

• The results reveal significantly higher concentrations of PGE2 in the synovial fluid in affected joints compared to healthy ones.
• No significant difference was observed, however, in the concentrations of the other measured inflammatory mediators: PGF2 alpha, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, and LTB4.

Implications

• This research provides valuable insight into the biochemical changes in joints affected by degenerative conditions in horses. The higher concentration of PGE2 in diseased joints suggests it might play a substantial role in these types of joint conditions.
• The study contributes to the understanding of the role inflammatory mediators play in degenerative joint diseases and injuries in horses, and potentially pave the way for improved diagnostic methods and treatments.