Utility of the discriminant analysis to categorize untrained Spanish Pure Bred horses on the basis of biochemical and muscle variables before and after a standardized exercise test.

The research study delves into the useful implementation of discriminant analysis, an analytical tool, to differentiate and classify untrained Spanish Pure Bred horses according to specific physiological traits. The method involves inspecting certain blood parameters, muscle enzymes, substrates, and metabolites before and after a standardized exercise test. The results show that the analysis can guide expert trainers towards developing customized training programs for each horse group.

Objective and Approach

• The research aimed to test the usefulness of discriminant analysis in objectively categorizing untrained Spanish Pure Bred horses based on their physiological properties.
• The research premise comprised 24 Spanish Pure Bred horses aged between 1.5-3 years. The scientists obtained biopsies from these horses before and after a standardized exercise test (SET).
• The SET involved a speed range of 4-7 m/s with a change of 1m/s velocity every two minutes.
• The scientists observed muscle enzymes, substrates, metabolites, and other plasma and blood parameters of each horse specimen.

Methods of Analysis and Grouping

• Three separate groups were established before the exercise (named A1, A2, and A3), containing six, seven, and eleven horses, respectively.
• Post-exercise, two groups were formed named B1 (consisting of sixteen horses), and B2 (composed of eight horses).
• A correspondence analysis was performed to define these groupings.

Findings from the Discriminant Analysis

• Using a forward stepwise discriminant analysis, 11 variables were selected that distinguished the groups effectively, both before and after the SET.
• The discriminant analysis tool exhibited its appropriateness to classify horses according to particular physiological variables.
• The data extracted could potentially assist expert trainers in establishing customized training routines for each group of horses, leading to improved athletic performance and health management for the respective horse groups.