Research needs on internal parasites of horses.

The research article discusses the need for more comprehensive studies on internal parasites in horses, emphasizing that while the horse industry is crucial to the U.S. economy, there is a lag in research concerning parasitic infections. The articles suggests that more research should focus not just on creating new drugs, but also on understanding parasite behavior and disease progression, which would lead to better diagnostics, treatment and prevention.

Current State of the Horse Industry and Parasitic Infections

• The article begins by acknowledging the value of the horse industry to the U.S. economy, and the significant role played by internal parasites in diseases affecting horses.
• Internal parasites are a major factor in enteritis and colic in horses, while also contributing to poor growth and development, respiratory disease, dermatitis, and central nervous system lesions.
• Babesia infections pose a particular threat to horses imported from certain global regions.

Lack of Contemporary Research

• The article points out that despite the growing horse population, research activity on internal parasites has not kept up. Most studies have focused on developing new antiparasitic drugs, rather than probing deeper into the bionomics – or the study of the relationship between organisms and their environment – of these parasites.
• The authors urge the scientific community to integrate studies on antiparasitic drugs with understanding parasites’ behavior under varying conditions and regions. The idea is to create more effective, cost-efficient integrated parasite control programs.

Need For More Research

• The article goes on to highlight the necessity for extended research on the pathogenesis (disease development) and immune response to equine parasitic infections.
• This enhanced understanding of disease progression would lead to improved diagnostic procedures, treatment, and preventative methods.
• Finally, the authors suggest the formation of specific short-term and long-term research objectives, aimed at producing tangible benefits.