Supplemental silicon increases plasma and milk silicon concentrations in horses.

The research article explores the impact of supplemental silicon on plasma and milk silicon concentrations in horses, with a specific focus on lactating mares and their nursing foals. It further investigates the potential role of silicon in changing biochemical markers involved in bone health.

Research Objective and Methodology

• The study aimed to understand the effect of additional dietary silicon (Si) on the concentration of silicon in the blood (plasma) and milk of lactating mares, and subsequently, the effect on silicon levels in the blood of nursing foals. The researchers were also keen on understanding the role of this supplemental silicon in altering biochemical markers of bone turnover with the intent of exploring potential benefits in improving bone health.
• The research involved twelve units of Arabian mare/foal, which were matched according to the date of foaling. These pairs were then split into two groups randomly – one group was given supplemental silicon (Supplemented), while the other acted as a control group (Control).
• Blood and milk samples were taken from mares on several specific days (0, 15, 30, and 45), with day 0 being the 1st day after the mare gave birth (parturition). In addition, biomarkers including osteocalcin, carboxy-terminal pyridinoline cross-linked telopeptide region of type I collagen, and pyridinoline and deoxypyridinoline crosslinks were also analyzed from serum samples.

Research Findings

• It was observed that all the mares in the Supplemented group showed higher plasma silicon concentrations than those in the Control group by day 30 of the experiment. Moreover, by day 45, the milk from the Supplemented group contained higher silicon concentrations in comparison to that of the Control group.
• In addition, it was found that the nursing foals of the Supplemented group had significantly higher plasma silicon concentrations compared to the foals of the Control group on day 45.
• The extra dietary silicon didn’t show any notable effect on bone metabolism in the foals. However, in the postpartum mares, there were observable trends indicating potential changes in bone metabolism.

Conclusion and Further Research

• The results of the research indicate that additional silicon in the diet increases silicon concentrations in blood and milk. This has implications for the diet of lactating mares, showing a potential way to increase silicon concentrations in them and their nursing foals.
• However, further research is necessary to conclusively understand whether silicon has a significant role in altering serum biochemical markers of bone and collagen activity. While the study hinted at potential changes in bone metabolism in mares, the evidence wasn’t strong enough to draw firm conclusions. Hence, more investigation is required to establish the full role of silicon in mare and foal health.