The influence of late pregnancy and lactation on bone metabolism in mares.

The study investigates the influence of late pregnancy and lactation on bone metabolism in mares, revealing that these stages significantly affect bone health, with estradiol playing a crucial role in bone maintenance.

Research Methodology

• The researchers studied the variations in the blood serum/plasma total calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphates (Pi), pyridinoline (Pyd), and 17beta-estradiol (E2) concentration, as well as the bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP) activity, in mares during pregnancy and lactation.
• Samples were collected from 11 mares at two intervals before foaling (60+/-10 and 20+/-10 days) and two periods after foaling (20+/-10 and 60+/-10 days).

Major Findings

• The concentration/activity of calcium, inorganic phosphates, pyridinoline, and bone alkaline phosphatase escalated significantly during the early stages of lactation. However, the level of pyridinoline reduced in the fourth period after rising initially.
• The study observed a significant correlation between the levels of 17beta-estradiol (a form of estrogen) and bone metabolism parameters. This finding highlights the role of estradiol in bone metabolism during pregnancy and lactation in mares.

Implications

• The normocalcaemia – the condition of having a normal level of calcium in the blood – saw low maintenance in mares during late pregnancy, indicating reduced bone synthesis. Metaphorically, during late pregnancy, the body is not making new bone as effectively as it usually would, therefore increasing the potential risks for bone health issues in mares.
• This research provides an invaluable insight into equine bone health during pregnancy and lactation. The understanding of estradiol’s role is crucial in maintaining mares’ bone health and could influence future strategies for care during pregnancy and lactation.