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Home / Equine Research Bank / Int J Mol Sci / Iron Status in Sport Horses: Is It Important for Equine Athl...
International journal of molecular sciences2025; 26(12); 5653; doi: 10.3390/ijms26125653

Iron Status in Sport Horses: Is It Important for Equine Athletes?

Abstract: Iron is unquestionably an essential element of physical performance for horses, just as it is for many other animals, including humans. Although post-exercise equine iron deficiency is not a common problem, recent studies showed that equine athletes may be considered a model for human exercise physiology. Sports anemia among human athletes is a common nutritional issue and remains one reason for poor physical fitness. Thus, this study area needs comprehensive knowledge since iron homeostasis changes in equine athletes remain unrecognized. The current review aims to summarize studies describing iron metabolism changes in response to physical effort in equine sports medicine. The confirmed prevalence of gastrointestinal bleeding, hemolysis, and hematuria in horse athletes seems to play a role in iron metabolism. Similarly, exercise-induced inflammation and its effect on the iron key regulator in mammals-hepcidin-may be as crucial for overall iron homeostasis in horses as in humans. In this review, we also present available data regarding the possible effect of various hormones on iron metabolism, performance-enhancing strategies related to iron metabolism in horse athletes, and the clinical relevance of regular iron status monitoring in sport horses. Overall, this article aims to discuss current knowledge and highlight existing gaps in our understanding of iron homeostasis in sport horses.
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Publication Date: 2025-06-12 PubMed ID: 40565115PubMed Central: PMC12192657DOI: 10.3390/ijms26125653Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research article investigates the role of iron in the physical performance of sport horses, and its metabolism changes in response to physical exertion in these animals. The study also looks at the effects of different hormones on iron metabolism and performance-enhancing strategies for sport horses.

Understanding Iron Metabolism Changes in Sport Horses

The researchers work to summarize past studies that have delved into how the iron metabolism alters in response to physical effort in sport horses. Knowledge of this aspect is crucial as it contributes to horse performance in varying intensities of sport.

  • The exercise-induced changes are implied to play a significant role in managing iron metabolism in these animals. Understanding these changes can shed light on the physiology of equine athletes and contribute significantly to their overall fitness and enhanced performance.
  • The research also recognizes and acknowledges prevalent health conditions in sport horses such as gastrointestinal bleeding, hemolysis, and hematuria. These conditions are noted for their contribution to iron metabolism in sport horses.

The Effect of Inflammation and Hormones on Iron Metabolism

The paper examines the role of exercise-induced inflammation on iron homeostasis in horses. Here, the primary focus is on its potential to influence the functioning of hepcidin, a key iron-regulating entity present in mammals.

  • The significance of hepcidin can’t be emphasized enough as it is as crucial for overall iron homeostasis in horses as in humans. Any changes in hepcidin functioning due to inflammation or other factors can greatly distort the iron balance in the horse’s body.
  • The research also examines the possible effects that different hormones might have on iron metabolism. These insights are essential because hormonal changes can greatly affect metabolism, and understanding these interactions can open up new ways to enhance performance in sport horses.

Drawing Performance-Enhancing Strategies and Clinical Relevance

The study aims to present data regarding performance-enhancing strategies connected to iron metabolism among sport horses. It also emphasizes the clinical importance of regular monitoring of iron status in these animals.

  • By highlighting the potential of iron metabolism to contribute to the overall performance, the research brings to light possible strategies to enhance performance through adjustments in diet, exercise, and supplements.
  • Regular monitoring and understanding iron status in sport horses also have immense clinical relevance. By being alert to any fluctuations, early interventions can be put in place to prevent any detrimental impact on the horse’s performance or overall health.
  • Additionally, understanding the nuanced aspects of iron metabolism in sport horses can bridge the knowledge gaps in equine sports medicine and contribute to better management practices for these animals.

Cite This Article

APA
Kiełbik P, Witkowska-Piłaszewicz O. (2025). Iron Status in Sport Horses: Is It Important for Equine Athletes? Int J Mol Sci, 26(12), 5653. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26125653

Publication

International journal of molecular sciences
ISSN: 1422-0067
NlmUniqueID: 101092791
Country: Switzerland
Language: English
Volume: 26
Issue: 12
PII: 5653

Researcher Affiliations

Kiełbik, Paula
  • Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland.
Witkowska-Piłaszewicz, Olga
  • Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Horses / physiology
  • Iron / metabolism
  • Iron / blood
  • Physical Conditioning, Animal
  • Homeostasis
  • Athletes
  • Hepcidins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Sports
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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