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Equine veterinary journal1998; 30(6); 534-539; doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04530.x

Macroscopic ‘degeneration’ of equine superficial digital flexor tendon is accompanied by a change in extracellular matrix composition.

Abstract: Injuries to the superficial digital flexor tendon are common in horses required to gallop and jump at speed. Partial rupture of this tendon usually occurs in the central core of the midmetacarpal region and may be preceded by localised degenerative changes. Post mortem examination of apparently normal equine flexor tendons has revealed an abnormal macroscopic appearance in the central core, characterised by a reddish discolouration. We have previously shown that there is also physical damage to the collagen fibres. In the present study we tested the hypothesis that the abnormal appearance is accompanied by changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix of the tendon. Biochemical analysis of the extracellular matrix demonstrated an increase in total sulphated glycosaminoglycan content, increase in the proportion of type III collagen and decrease in collagen linked fluorescence in the central core of 'degenerated' tendons relative to tissue from the peripheral region of the same tendon. Dry matter content and total collagen content were not significantly different between tendon zones or normal and 'degenerated' tendons. These changes suggest a change in cell metabolism and matrix turnover in the central core of the tendon and are likely to contribute to a decrease in mechanical properties in this part of the tendon, predisposing to the characteristic partial rupture of the tendon.
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Publication Date: 1998-12-09 PubMed ID: 9844973DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04530.xGoogle Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article

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 study investigates the changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix of the superficial digital flexor tendon in horses in cases of ‘degeneration.’ The results showed an increase in total sulphated glycosaminoglycan content and type III collagen as well as a decrease in collagen linked fluorescence, suggesting altered cell metabolism and matrix turnover that may contribute to the weakening of the tendon.

Background

  • The research is concerned with the state of the superficial digital flexor tendon in horses, the injury of which is frequent in horses required to perform fast or jumping movements.
  • Such injuries, particularly the partial rupture of the tendon, often happen in the central core of the midmetacarpal region and could potentially be a consequence of localized degenerative changes.

Investigation and Findings

  • Post mortem examination of seemingly normal equine flexor tendons displayed an abnormal macroscopic appearance in the central core, including a peculiar reddish color, which was previously connected to physical damage to the collagen fibres.
  • This study’s premise was the abnormal appearance of the tendon, theorizing that it is caused by changes in the composition of the tendon’s extracellular matrix, the biological ‘glue’ that holds cells together.
  • The biochemical analysis of the extracellular matrix showed an increase in total sulphated glycosaminoglycan content and in the ratio of type III collagen, both of which are integral parts of connective tissues, which tendons are a type of.
  • In contrast, the amount of collagen-linked fluorescence in the central core of ‘degenerated’ tendons diminished relative to tissues from peripheral regions of the same tendon.
  • Despite these changes, the dry matter content and the overall collagen content revealed no significant difference, staying consistent between normal and ‘degenerated’ tendons or different tendon zones.

Significance of the Findings

  • The changes in the composition of the extracellular matrix could suggest a shift in cell metabolism and matrix turnover within the central core of the tendon.
  • These changes could contribute to a decrease in mechanical properties in this part of the tendon, making it more susceptible to typical partial rupture of the tendon.

Cite This Article

APA
Birch HL, Bailey AJ, Goodship AE. (1998). Macroscopic ‘degeneration’ of equine superficial digital flexor tendon is accompanied by a change in extracellular matrix composition. Equine Vet J, 30(6), 534-539. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04530.x

Publication

Equine veterinary journal
ISSN: 0425-1644
NlmUniqueID: 0173320
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 30
Issue: 6
Pages: 534-539

Researcher Affiliations

Birch, H L
  • Veterinary Basic Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hatfield, UK.
Bailey, A J
    Goodship, A E

      MeSH Terms

      • Animals
      • Collagen / analysis
      • DNA / analysis
      • Extracellular Matrix / chemistry
      • Glycosaminoglycans / analysis
      • Horses / injuries
      • Horses / physiology
      • Immunohistochemistry
      • Rupture / veterinary
      • Tendon Injuries / metabolism
      • Tendon Injuries / pathology
      • Tendon Injuries / veterinary
      • Tendons / chemistry
      • Tendons / pathology
      • Water / analysis

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