Plasma beta-endorphin and adrenocorticotrophin in young horses in training

Factors affecting measurement of basal adrenocorticotropic hormone in adult domestic equids: A scoping review

Measurement of basal adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) concentration is the most commonly used diagnostic test for pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). Although several pre-analytical and analytical factors have been reported to affect basal ACTH concentrations in equids, the extent to which these have been evaluated in the context of PPID diagnosis is unclear. The objectives of this scoping review were to identify and systematically chart current evidence about pre-analytical and analytical factors affecting basal ACTH concentrations in adult domestic equids. Systematic searches of electronic databases and conference proceedings were undertaken in June 2022, repeated in October 2022 and updated in August 2023. English language publications published prior to these dates were included. Screening and data extraction were undertaken individually by the authors, using predefined criteria and a modified scoping review data extraction template. After removal of duplicates, 903 publications were identified, of which 235 abstracts were screened for eligibility and 134 publications met inclusion criteria. Time of year, exercise, breed/type and transportation were the factors most frequently associated with significant increases in ACTH concentration (n = 26, 16, 13 and 10 publications, respectively). Only 25 publications reported inclusion of PPID cases in the study population, therefore the relationship between many factors affecting basal ACTH concentration and diagnostic accuracy for PPID remains undefined. However, several factors were identified that could impact interpretation of basal ACTH results. Findings also highlight the need for detailed reporting of pre-analytical and analytical conditions in future research to facilitate translation of evidence to practice.

The different hormonal system during exercise stress coping in horses

The review discusses the hormonal changes during exercise stress. The exercise generally produces a rise of adrenaline (A), noradrenaline (NA), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, glucagon, growth hormone, arginine vasopressine, etc., and a drop of insulin. The hormonal events during reestablishment of homeostasis due to exercise stress can be divided into a catabolic phase, with decreased tolerance of effort, and reversible biochemical, hormonal and immunological changes, and an anabolic phase, with a higher adaptive capacity, and enhanced performance. The two main hormonal axes activated in the catabolic phase are sympathetic–adrenal–medullary system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, while in the anabolic phase, growth hormone-insulin-like factor I axis, and gonadal axes. The hormonal responses during exercise and recovery can be regarded as regulatory and integrated endocrine responses. The increase of catecholamines and ACTH is dependent on the intensity of exercise; a marked increase in plasma A occurs during exercises with high emotional content. The response of cortisol is correlated with the duration of exercise, while the effect of exercise duration on b-endorphin changes is highly dependent on the type of exercise performed. Cortisol and b-endorphin changes usually occur in phase, but not during exercises with high emotional content. Glucocorticoids and iodothyronines are involved in meeting immediate energy demands, and a model of functional interactions between HPA axis and hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis during exercise stress is proposed. A modulation of coping responses to different energy demanding physical activities required for sport activities could be hypothesized. This review supports the proposed regulation of hypophysiotropic TRHergic neurons as metabolic integrators during exercise stress. Many hormonal systems (ghrelin, leptin, glucose, insulin, and cortisol) are activated to control substrate mobilizations and utilization. The cardiovascular homeostasis, the fluid and electrolyte balance during exercise are highly dependent on vasoactive hormones (antidiuretic hormone, atrial natriuretic peptide, renin–angiotensin–aldosterone, and prostaglandins) control.

The contribution of total and free iodothyronines to welfare maintenance and management stress coping in Ruminants and Equines: Physiological ranges and reference values

In order to acquire a pattern of thyroid involvement in welfare maintenance in Ruminants and Equines, this review summarizes data concerning the reference values of total and free iodothyronines and their modifications in physiological conditions and in different management conditions (pregnancy, lactation, weaning, growth, isolation, restraint, shearing, confinement and transportation). Thyroidal and extrathyroidal tissues efficiently respond to management practices, giving a differentiated contribution to circulating iodothyronine changes. The hormonal response could be mainly attributed to the intracellular deiodination of T₄ to T_3. Triiodothyronine (T₃) and free iodothyronines (fT₃ and fT₄) result more responsive to management stress, showing different pattern with species and to various conditions, as to environmental conditions in which activities are performed. Intrinsic seasonal changes of iodothyronines and a significant pregnancy effect for T₃ were recorded in mares. Higher, although not significant, T₃ and T₄ concentrations in barren than pregnant mares were observed in donkeys. A positive significant correlation between T₃ and T₄ was described only in pregnant donkeys. Moreover, a significant effect of season on T₃ and fT₃ changes was observed both in pregnant and barren donkeys. A significant lactating effect compared with nonlactating stage for T₃ and T₄ was recorded in mares. In growing foals, body weight (BW) and age were positively correlated with T₃ and negatively correlated with T₄, fT₄ and fT₃. Weaning effects were shown for T₃ and fT₄ concentrations, indicating that weaning represents a severe stress and the presence of conspecific does not reduce psychological stress in this phase. Lambs showed significant decreased T₃ and elevated T₄ concentrations two weeks after weaning, with higher concentrations in both males and females compared to 24 h. Significant positive correlations were observed between BW and T₄, fT₃ and fT₄ concentrations in lambs. A T₃ decrease was detected after isolation, such as induced by confinement and weaning in lambs. Higher T₃ concentration after restraint and shearing than after isolation and significant increases in T₄, fT₃ and fT₄ values after restraint and shearing were recorded. The basal concentrations of fT₃ in both the inexperienced and experienced transported horses were significantly higher than in untransported experienced horses. Moreover, increases of T_3, T₄ and fT₄ after short road transportation, and significant correlations between T₃ and rectal temperature (RT), body weight (BW) and heart rate (HR), confirmed their important role in coping strategy. Thyroid responsiveness to short transport is similar in domestic donkeys and horses, with a preferential release of T₃ in horses. A greatest and constant release of T₃ and T₄, although differentiated, after simulated transportation and after conventional transport of horses confirmed that the degree of stress induced by confinement and additional stressful stimuli associated to road transportation could differently influence the iodothyronine release. Temperamental Limousin young beef bulls showed lower T₄ and fT₄ concentrations after prolonged transportation than calm subjects, and a concomitant decrease of circulating ACTH, cortisol, T₃ and fT₃ concentrations, probably induced by down regulation of HPA axis and cortisol negative feedback. These data reinforce the importance of taking into account the evaluation of iodothyronines, and notably of T₃, as markers of welfare and stress and their role in ensuring energy homeostasis and productive and reproductive performances in Ruminants and Equines.

Influence of training and competitive sessions on peripheral β-endorphin levels in training show jumping horses

Aim:

To investigate the effects of training sessions on circulating β-endorphin changes in sport horses before and after competition and to ascertain whether competition would affect this response.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 24 trained jumping horses were randomly assigned to one of two training groups: Group A (competing) and Group B (not competing). To determined plasma β-endorphin concentrations, two pre- and post-competition training weeks at aerobic workout and two competitive show jumping event days at anaerobic workout were measured before, 5 and 30 min after exercise. Exercise intensity is described using lactate concentrations and heart rate. The circuit design, intensity, and duration of training sessions were the same for both groups.

Results:

In Group A, one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures (RM-ANOVA) showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=14.41; p<0.001), only in the post-competition training sessions, while in Group B showed no significant effects. Two-way RM-ANOVA showed, after post-competition training sessions, a significant difference between Group A and Group B (F=6.235; p=0.023), with higher β-endorphin changes in Group A, compared to Group B. During the competitive show jumping sessions, one-way RM ANOVA showed significant effects of exercise on β-endorphin changes (F=51.10; p<0.001). The statistical analysis, in Group A, showed a significant difference between post-competition training and competitive exercise (F=6.32; p=0.024) with higher β-endorphin values in competitive sessions compared to those of post-competition training.

Conclusion:

Lactate concentrations seem to be the main factors being correlated with the raise of β-endorphin during anaerobic exercise of competitive events. Exercise of low intensity, as well as that one of training sessions, does not appear to stimulate a significant increased release of β-endorphin and it may depend on the duration of the exercise program. Moreover, the responses during exercise in the course of post-competition training sessions seem to be significantly different from those the pre-competition training. These data show that the preliminary competitive stress induced additional significant changes of β-endorphin pattern. It would reflect the need of a long-lasting modulation of fatigue and pain perception related to the effect of an additional physical and mental effort for the consecutive competitive and training sessions.

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responses of horses to therapeutic riding program: effects of different riders

In order to determine whether therapeutic riding could result in higher levels of stress than recreational riding, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response was evaluated in six horses by monitoring circulating β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol concentrations. Horses were already accustomed to be trained both for therapy and riding school activity since 2004. Intervention consisted of 60-minute therapeutic sessions, two times per week for 6weeks with different riders: disabled and recreational riders (session A and B respectively). The therapeutic riders' group (A) consisted of six children with psychomotor disabilities; the recreational riders' group (B) consisted of six healthy children without any previous horse riding experience. Horses were asked to perform the same gaits and exercises at all sessions, both with disabled and healthy users. The statistical analysis showed that during both sessions the mean basal β-endorphin and ACTH levels of horses did not show any significant changes, while the one way RM-ANOVA showed significant effects of sessions A on the cortisol (F=11.50; P<0.01) levels. Horses submitted to sessions A showed lower cortisol levels both at 5min (P<0.001) and at 30min (P<0.005) after therapeutic sessions than those after session B. Results suggest that in tested horses and for the variables settled, HPA axis was less responsive to disabled than healthy, recreational riders. Among the endocrine responses, cortisol was one of the indicators of HPA axis stress response.

Comparative endocrinological responses to short transportation of Equidae (Equus asinus and Equus caballus)

In order to evaluate the effects of short transportation on β-endorphin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol changes, 12 healthy stallions of Equidae (Equus asinus and Equus caballus) were studied before and after transportation of 50 km. Blood samples were collected 1 week before transportation in basal conditions, immediately before loading and after transportation and unloading, on their arrival at the breeding station. Compared to basal and before values, donkeys showed an increase in circulating ACTH (P < 0.001) and cortisol (P < 0.0005) levels after transportation and higher ACTH (P < 0.01) levels than horses after transportation. A positive and significant correlation (r = 0.885; P < 0.01) between ACTH and cortisol levels after transportation was found. No significant differences were observed for β-endorphin levels. Compared to basal and before values, horses showed higher cortisol (P < 0.005) levels after transportation and no significant differences were observed for ACTH and β-endorphin levels in donkeys. Horses facing forward (direction of travel) showed higher (P < 0.01) β-endorphin levels after transportation than donkeys; horses facing backward (the opposite direction of travel) showed lower (P < 0.05) ACTH levels after transportation. The results indicate that short transportation induces a preferential activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-axis (HPA), with significant release of ACTH and cortisol in donkeys and only of cortisol in horses, suggesting that transportation for donkeys may be more stressful than horses.

Effects of competitive and noncompetitive showjumping on total and free iodothyronines, β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol levels of horses

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY

Limited knowledge exists about the differentiated effects of competitive and noncompetitive showjumping on thyroid function and relationships with hypothalamic-hypophysis-corticoadrenal hormones.

OBJECTIVES

To obtain preliminary data about differentiated effects of competitive and noncompetitive showjumping on total and free iodothyronines, β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol of horses.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Five trained healthy jumper horses were studied during competitive and noncompetitive showjumping, performed in the same circuit design over 10 fences of 1.10 m. Hormone levels before, 5 and 30 min post exercise were recorded. Serum iodothyronines and cortisol concentrations were measured in duplicate utilising EIA kits. Serum ACTH and plasma β-endorphin concentrations were analysed in duplicate utilising RIA kits. Two-way RM ANOVA was applied to test for effects of interaction between different type of session and time. Significant differences between post exercise and basal values were established using Bonferroni's multiple comparison test. A linear correlation analysis (Pearson's method) was performed to analyse the relationships between total and free iodothyronines and between iodothyronines and β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol.

RESULTS

In sampling times adopted no statistical different effects of type of session were recorded on hormone variables. Sampling time affected ACTH (F = 4.25; P < 0.02) and T(4) (F = 4.43; P < 0.02) post exercise changes. During the noncompetitive session, significant correlations existed between T(4) and β-endorphin (r = -0.56), ACTH (r = -0.65), between β-endorphin and ACTH (r = 0.52) and between T(3) and fT(3) (r = 0.72); during competition between β-endorphin and T(3) (r = -0.67), fT(3) (r = -0.59).

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary results could demonstrate correlations between thyroid hormones and β-endorphin response to showjumping, although no definitive conclusion can be produced concerning the relationships between HPA and thyroid function during exercise.

Plasma β-endorphin, cortisol and immune responses to acute exercise are altered by age and exercise training in horses

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY

Ageing appears to affect immune and neuroendocirne function in horses and response to acute exercise. No studies have examined the combined effects of training and ageing on immune and neuroendocirne function in horses.

HYPOTHESIS

To ascertain whether training and age would affect the plasma beta-endorphin (BE) and cortisol (C) as well as immune function responses to acute exercise in Standardbred mares.

METHODS

Graded exercise tests (GXT) and simulated race tests (SRT) were performed before and after 12 weeks training at 60 % HRmax. BE and C were measured at rest and at 5, 10, 20, 40, 60 and 120 min post GXT. Leucocyte cell number, CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte subsets, and mitogen stimulated lymphoproliferative response (LPR), were measured in jugular blood before and after the SRTs.

RESULTS

Cortisol rose by 5 min post GXT in young (Y) and middle-age (MA) mares (P<0.05) and remained elevated until 40 and 60 min post GXT, respectively during both pre- and post training GXT. There was no rise in C in old (0) mares after either GXT (P>0.05). Pretraining BE rose (P<0.05) by 5 min post GXT in all mares. After training, BE was higher in Y and O vs. MA (P<0.05) at 5 min post GXT. Post training BE was higher at 5 min post GXT in Y and O vs. pretraining (P<0.05). After SRT, lymphocyte number rose in all mares (P<0.05); however, lower lymphocyte numbers (P<0.05) were seen in MA vs. Y and O vs. MA (P<0.05). The O had reduced LPR to Con A and PHA stimulation (P<0.05) compared to Y and MA after the SRT after both pre- and post training SRT. LPR to PWM was lower (P<0.05) in O vs. Y and MA after the pretraining SRT. Training caused an increase in resting LPR to PWM in MA only (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Both age and training altered the plasma beta-endorphin and cortisol responses as well as and immune responses to acute exercise.

POTENTIAL RELEVANCE

This study provides important information on the effects of ageing and training that will aid in the management and care of an increasing number of active older horses.

Melanocortins mimic the effects of leptin to restore reproductive function in lean hypogonadotropic ewes

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Leptin restores gonadotropic function in lean hypogonadotropic animals by an unknown mechanism. We aimed to test the hypothesis that restoration of gonadotropic function is a result of an upregulation of central acetylated melanocortin production.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Lean ovariectomised (OVX) ewes received intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusions of leptin (or vehicle) for 3 days, which upregulated proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA and restored pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. A melanocortin agonist (MTII), but not naloxone treatment, reinstated pulsatile LH secretion in lean OVX ewes. We treated (i.c.v.) lean OVX ewes with leptin (or vehicle) and measured peptide levels and post-translational modification in the arcuate nucleus (ARC). Levels of beta-endorphin (beta-END) were lower in lean animals, with no effect of leptin treatment. Desacetyl-alpha-MSH was the predominant form of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) in the ARC and levels were similar in all groups. In another group of lean and normal-weight OVX ewes, we measured the different forms of alpha-MSH in ARC, hypothalamus (ARC-removed) and the preoptic area (POA). Acetylated alpha-MSH levels were lower in lean animals in the terminal beds of the hypothalamus and POA but not the ARC.

CONCLUSIONS

Leptin corrects the hypogonadotropic state in the lean condition by upregulation of POMC gene expression, and may increase transport and acetylation of melanocortins to target cells in the brain. Melanocortin treatment restores LH secretion in lean animals.

Circulating beta-endorphin, adrenocorticotrophic hormone and cortisol levels of stallions before and after short road transport: stress effect of different distances

Background

Since transport evokes physiological adjustments that include endocrine responses, the objective of this study was to examine the responses of circulating β-endorphin, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels to transport stress in stallions.

Methods

Forty-two healthy Thoroughbred and crossbred stallions were studied before and after road transport over distances of 100, 200 and 300 km. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein: first in a single box immediately before loading (pre-samples), then immediately after transport and unloading on arrival at the breeding stations (post-samples).

Results

An increase in circulating β-endorphin levels after transport of 100 km (P < 0.01), compared to basal values was observed. Circulating ACTH levels showed significant increases after transport of 100 km (P < 0.001) and 200 km (P < 0.001). Circulating cortisol levels showed significant increases after road transport over distances of 100, 200 and 300 km (P < 0.001). An effect of transport on β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol variations was therefore evident for the different distances studied. No significant differences (P > 0.05) between horses of different ages and different breeds were observed for β-endorphin, ACTH and cortisol levels.

Conclusion

The results obtained for short term transportation of stallions showed a very strong reaction of the adrenocortical system. The lack of response of β-endorphin after transport of 200–300 km and of ACTH after transport of 300 km seems to suggest a soothing effect of negative feedback of ACTH and cortisol levels.

Comparison of tracheal aspirates before and after high-speed treadmill exercise in racehorses

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether percentages of neutrophils in tracheal aspirate (TA) samples collected from racehorses are increased after exercise and whether interpretation of results from TA samples taken before and after exercise agree.

DESIGN

Case series of 40 young Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses in race training presented for evaluation of poor performance.

PROCEDURE

TA samples were collected endoscopically from racehorses presented for poor performance 24 h before and 1 to 2 h after high speed treadmill exercise testing. Aliquots of the retrieved fluid were cytocentrifuged and smears were stained with Diff-Quik. Mean neutrophil counts were expressed as percentages of the total number of inflammatory cells counted and subsequently were categorised as either above or below an accepted cut-off of 20%. Comparisons between percentages of neutrophils before and after exercise were made.

RESULTS

Percentage of neutrophils from TA samples obtained from racehorses after exercise was significantly higher than neutrophil percentages from TA samples collected from the same horse before exercise. In horses with TA specimens that were categorised as having < or = 20% neutrophils before treadmill exercise, the percentage of neutrophils in their TA specimens after exercise was, on average, significantly higher and was greater than the cut-off value of 20%.

CONCLUSION

Recent strenuous exercise may change the proportion of neutrophils in lower airways of racehorses and practitioners should be aware of this when collecting and interpreting the results from TA samples. The most practical time for collection of a TA sample to obtain the most diagnostically useful information might be after a suitable washout period of at least 1 to 2 h post-exercise.

Evidence-based literature pertaining to thyroid dysfunction and Cushing's syndrome in the horse

The evidence-based literature pertaining to thyroid dysfunction and Cushing's syndrome is discussed in this article. Summaries of and recommendations for the treatment of these conditions are made. There is a need for reliable diagnostic tests for these conditions in horses.

Plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) concentrations and clinical response in horses treated for equine Cushing's disease with cyproheptadine or pergolide

Plasma ACTH levels have been variable in horses with a positive clinical response for therapy for equine Cushing's Disease (ECD). Therefore, our purpose was to determine the value of monitoring plasma adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) levels during treatment of equine Cushing's disease (ECD) with either cyproheptadine (n = 32) or pergolide (n = 10). First, we validated the chemiluminescent ACTH assay (specificity, precision, accuracy, intra-assay and interassay variations) and tested methods of handling the whole blood from the time of collection to when the ACTH was assayed. The sensitivity and specificity of high plasma ACTH levels for detecting ECD was determined in a retrospective study on hospitalised horses (n = 68). Surveys were sent to veterinarians who submitted equine ACTH levels that were high initially and had at least 2 ACTH samples to determine the value of monitoring ACTH levels during therapy of ECD. The ACTH chemiluminescent assay was valid. The ACTH was stable when whole blood was collected and held in plastic tubes for 8 h before separating the plasma. The sensitivity and specificity of plasma ACTH levels for detecting ECD were 84% (n = 19,95% CI 60,97) and 78% (n = 49,95% CI 63,88), respectively. Treated horses generally showed a decrease in plasma ACTH. Plasma ACTH levels may be helpful when monitoring therapy of ECD, although improvement in clinical signs should be considered most important. There were no differences between cyproheptadine and pergolide in terms of improvements in any of the clinical signs.

Cutaneous analgesia, hemodynamic and respiratory effects, and beta-endorphin concentration in spinal fluid and plasma of horses after acupuncture and electroacupuncture

OBJECTIVE

To determine cutaneous analgesia, hemodynamic and respiratory effects, and beta-endorphin concentration in spinal fluid and plasma of horses after acupuncture and electroacupuncture (EA).

ANIMALS

8 healthy 10- to 20-year-old mares that weighed between 470 and 600 kg.

PROCEDURE

Each horse received 2 hours of acupuncture and 2 hours of PAES at acupoints Bladder 18, 23, 25, and 28 on both sides of the vertebral column as well as sham needle placement (control treatment). Each treatment was administered in a random order. At least 7 days elapsed between treatments. Nociceptive cutaneous pain threshold was measured by use of skin twitch reflex latency (STRL) and avoidance to radiant heat (< or = 50 degrees C) in the lumbar area. Skin temperature, cardiovascular and respiratory variables, and beta-endorphin concentration in spinal fluid (CSF-EN) and plasma (plasma-EN) were measured.

RESULTS

Acupuncture and PAES significantly increased STRL and skin temperature. The CSF-EN was significantly increased from baseline values 30 to 120 minutes after onset of PAES, but it did not change after acupuncture and control treatments. Heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperature, arterial blood pressure, Hct, total solids and bicarbonate concentrations, base excess, plasma-EN, and results of blood gas analyses were not significantly different from baseline values after acupuncture, PAES, and control treatments.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Administration of PAES was more effective than acupuncture for activating the spinal cord to release beta-endorphins into the CSF of horses. Acupuncture and PAES provided cutaneous analgesia in horses without adverse cardiovascular and respiratory effects.

The endocrine system and the challenge of exercise

Fine-tuning of the response to exercise that lasts longer than a few seconds is reliant on the regulation of several key variables governing the cardiopulmonary, vascular, and metabolic response to exercise. This type of integrative response requires communication between organ systems that relies on the secretion of endocrine and paracrine substances by one tissue or organ that are transported remotely to other tissues or organs to evoke a response to adjust to the disturbance.

Effects of cool and hot humid environmental conditions on neuroendocrine responses of horses to treadmill exercise

To determine the effects of exercise, high heat and humidity and acclimation on plasma adrenaline, noradrenaline, beta-endorphin and cortisol concentrations, five horses performed a competition exercise test (CET; designed to simulate the speed and endurance test of a three-day event) in cool dry (CD) (20 degrees C/40% RH) and hot humid (30 degrees C/80% RH) conditions before (pre-acclimation) and after (post-acclimation) a 15 day period of humid heat acclimation. Plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations pre-acclimation were significantly increased compared with exercise in the CD trial at the end of Phases C (P<0.05) and D (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively) and at 2 min recovery (P<0.01), with adrenaline concentrations still elevated after 5 min of recovery (P<0.001). Plasma beta-endorphin concentrations were increased at the end of Phases C (P<0.05) and X (P<0.01) and at 5 and 30 min recovery (P<0.05) in the pre-acclimation session. Plasma cortisol concentrations were elevated after the initial warm up period pre-acclimation (P<0.01) and at the end of Phase C (P<0.05), compared with the CD trial. A 15 day period of acclimation significantly increased plasma adrenaline concentrations at 2 min recovery (P<0.001) and plasma cortisol concentration at the end of Phase B (P<0.01) compared with pre-acclimation. Acclimation did not significantly influence noradrenaline or beta-endorphin responses to exercise, although there was a trend for plasma beta-endorphin to be lower at the end of Phases C and X and after 30 min recovery compared with pre-acclimation. Plasma adrenaline, noradrenaline, beta-endorphin and cortisol concentrations were increased by exercise in cool dry conditions and were further increased by the same exercise in hot humid conditions. Exercise responses post-acclimation suggest that adrenaline and noradrenaline may play a role in the adaptation of horses to thermal stress and that changes in plasma beta-endorphin concentrations could be used as a sensitive indicator of thermal tolerance before and after acclimation. The use of plasma cortisol as a specific indicator of heat stress and thermal tolerance before or after acclimation in exercising horses appears limited.

Exercise-induced changes in atrial peptides in relation to neuroendocrine responses and fluid balance in the horse

Previous data show that, in horses, plasma atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP and NT-ANP) remain elevated for a long time after exercise. To study whether exercise-induced changes in hormonal and fluid balance explain this, we measured plasma concentrations of COOH- and NH2-terminal atrial natriuretic peptides (ANP(99-129) and NT-ANP(1-98) together with arginine vasopressin (AVP), adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH), beta-endorphin, cortisol, catecholamines, and indicators of fluid balance in six Finnhorses after a graded submaximal exercise test on a treadmill. After exercise, AVP and catecholamines diminished rapidly; atrial peptides, ACTH, beta-endorphin, and cortisol remained elevated longer. ANP reached its peak value at 5 min and NT-ANP at 30 min post-exercise. At 60 min, ANP was still significantly increased and NT-ANP even above its level at the end of exercise. The different temporal patterns of ANP and NT-ANP are most probably explained by differences in their plasma half-lives. The post-exercise increase in NT-ANP indicates that the release of atrial peptides is stimulated during recovery after exercise. The rapid decrease in AVP and catecholamines suggests that these hormones do not explain the long-lasting increase in atrial peptides. Cortisol remained elevated longer and it may have contributed to some extent. After exercise, the packed cell volume (PCV) decreased more slowly than plasma total protein and electrolytes, which refers to a slow post-exercise return in blood volume. Taken together, the present results show that the long-lasting post-exercise increase in plasma atrial peptides in horses is most probably explained by elevated central blood volume and that the role of vasoactive hormones is small.

Coughing in thoroughbred racehorses: risk factors and tracheal endoscopic and cytological findings

A matched case-control study was made of 100 thoroughbred horses which were coughing and 148 control horses which were free of clinical signs of respiratory tract disease. The variables identified by multivariable conditional logistic regression as being significantly associated with coughing included age (the risk decreased with age), the stage of training (horses in early training were at greatest risk), the time since the last race (horses that had never raced were at greatest risk) and the time since they were last transported (horses transported more than 14 days previously were more likely to cough than those transported within the last week). The coughing horses were significantly more likely to have high scores for upper and lower tracheal mucus and pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia. In addition, the tracheal aspirates of the coughing horses had increased odds of neutrophilia and were more likely to have intracellular bacteria than the control horses. However, a considerable proportion of the control horses had cytological and/or endoscopic evidence of airway inflammation.

Effects of exercise intensity and duration on plasma beta-endorphin concentrations in horses

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship between plasma beta-endorphin (EN) concentrations and exercise intensity and duration in horses.

ANIMALS

8 mares with a mean age of 6 years (range, 3 to 13 years) and mean body weight of 450 kg.

PROCEDURE

Horses were exercised for 20 minutes at 60% of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and to fatigue at 95% V02max. Plasma EN concentrations were determined before exercise, after a 10-minute warmup period, after 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes at 60% VO2max or at the point of fatigue (95% VO2max), and at regular intervals after exercise. Glucose concentrations were determined at the same times EN concentrations were measured. Plasma lactate concentration was measured 5 minutes after exercise.

RESULTS

Maximum EN values were recorded 0 to 45 minutes after horses completed each test. Significant time and intensity effects on EN concentrations were detected. Concentrations were significantly higher following exercise at 95% VO2max, compared with those after 20 minutes of exercise at 60% VO2max (605.2 +/- 140.6 vs 312.3 +/- 53.1 pg/ml). Plasma EN concentration was not related to lactate concentration and was significantly but weakly correlated with glucose concentration for exercise at both intensities (r = 0.21 and 0.30 for 60 and 95% VO2max, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A critical exercise threshold exists for EN concentration in horses, which is 60% VO2max or less and is related to exercise intensity and duration. Even under conditions of controlled exercise there may be considerable differences in EN concentrations between horses. This makes the value of comparing horses on the basis of their EN concentration questionable.

Equine plasma beta-endorphin concentrations are affected by exercise intensity and time of day

Eight mature mares were exercised for 20 min at 60% VO2max and to fatigue at 95% VO2max. Plasma beta-endorphin (EN) concentrations were determined before exercise, after a 10 min warm-up, and at the end of each exercise test. Mean +/- s.e. beta-endorphin concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) higher following work at 95% VO2max when compared to that at 60% VO2max (420.0 +/- 102.7 vs. 269.9 +/- 30.69 pg/ml). Pre-exercise samples were collected between 1000 and 1500 h. In order to evaluate whether any cyclic changes in EN secretion effects may have influenced results, a subsequent study was completed using 12 horses to assess diurnal fluctuations in EN concentrations, by measuring EN concentration every 2 h for a 24 h period. There was no statistical difference in mean values at any time between 0800 and 2000 h. Whether individual differences in EN concentrations reflected varying degrees of stress associated with the exercise could not be determined. Any possible link between EN concentration and exercise stress in exercising horses awaits clarification.

Maximal exercise transiently disrupts hormonal secretory patterns in standardbred geldings

Basal concentrations of cortisol (CORT), beta-endorphin (beta EP), growth hormone (GH) and testosterone (T) and their disruption during 32 h of recovery after treadmill exercise were investigated in 4 geldings. Blood samples were collected from resting horses every 20 min between 0600-1000 and 1500-1900 h, and hourly between 1000-1500 h on 3 consecutive days. Treadmill exercise tests comprising 2 min intervals at 30, 50, and 70% VO2max then to fatigue at 100% VO2max were conducted between 1020-1130 h on Day 2. Blood was collected before, during and 15, 30, 60 and 90 min after exercise. Mean (Cav), peak (Cmax) and total (i.e. integrated) (Ctot) concentrations were calculated for CORT, beta EP and GH during the 20 min sampling sessions, and for CORT, beta EP, GH and T between 1000-1300 h on Days 1-3 (incorporating the samples during exercise on Day 2) and 1300-1900 h on Days 1-3. Cav, Cmax and Ctot for CORT, beta EP, GH and T were greater during exercise and recovery than in the same period on Day 1. Cav and Ctot values for plasma T during the 1300-1900 h period were significantly elevated on Day 2 and compared to Day 1 (P < 0.05), but there were no differences between Days 1 and 3 values for these variables. We concluded that plasma T concentration increases in response to maximal exercise in geldings, as does plasma CORT, beta EP and GH. Furthermore, maximal exercise disrupts basal plasma concentrations of CORT, beta EP and GH for up to 24 h and T for 26-32 h post exercise in geldings, therefore reflecting the minimum recovery periods required before evaluating normal, resting levels of these hormones in horses undergoing training.

The use of Baypamun N in crowding associated infectious respiratory disease: efficacy of Baypamun N (freeze dried product) in 4-10 month old horses

The efficacy of an immunomodulator, Baypamun N, was tested in 4-10-month-old horses which were exposed to stress by weaning, transport and commingling with yearlings from different breeders (crowding). Verum (n = 26) and placebo animals (n = 27) received three intramuscular injections of the investigational preparations (days 0, 2, 9) starting at the day of commingling in one stable. The incidence of acute respiratory disease was high during the first 4 weeks after commingling. Approximately 50% of all horses showed seroconversion due to field infection by EHV1 and EHV4 during the observation period. The clinical scores in the Baypamun N group were significantly reduced by 40.3% (P < 0.05) compared to the placebo group. The proportion of horses with purulent nasal discharge during the observation period (4 weeks) was also significantly reduced by 58.7% (P < 0.01) in the Baypamun N group. Fifty per cent of the horses injected with Baypamun N showed no purulent nasal discharge and therefore no signs of complicated disease of the upper respiratory airways in contrast to only 14.8% in the non-protected placebo group. The challenge conditions studied in this investigation were rather severe because of the permanent exposure of Baypamun N treated individuals to the non-separated and untreated horses (n = 51). This indicates that treatment with Baypamun N is a successful tool to avoid severe clinical consequences of stress in young horses.

Is the thoroughbred race-horse under chronic stress?

Thoroughbred fillies were divided into three groups according to age: group 1, 7 fillies aged 1 to 2 years (G1) starting the training program; group 2, 9 fillies aged 2 to 3 years (G2) in a full training program; group 3, 8 older fillies 3 to 4 years of age (G3) training and racing. Blood samples were collected weekly from July to December. Cortisol was quantified using a solid phase DPC kit. The intra- and interassay coefficients of variation were 12.5% and 15.65% and sensitivity was 1.9 +/- 0.2 nmol/l. The semester average of cortisol levels varied between groups: G1 = 148.8 +/- 6.7, G2 = 125.7 +/- 5.8, G3 = 101.1 +/- 5.4 nmol/l, with G3 differing statistically from the other groups. The lower cortisol levels observed in the older fillies leads us to propose that the stress stimulus, when maintained over a long period of time, may become chronic and result in a reduction of hypophyseal corticotropin-releasing hormone receptors. The secretion of endogenous opioids may also lead to low serum cortisol levels.

Plasma adrenocorticotropin concentration in healthy horses and in horses with clinical signs of hyperadrenocorticism

Pituitary adenomas are commonly reported in older horses. The typical clinical signs associated with this condition, also known as equine Cushing's disease (ECD), are related to increased adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) production resulting in hyperadrenocorticism. The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether plasma ACTH concentrations differed between cushingoid and healthy horses. The second objective was to determine the effects of blood sample handling techniques on ACTH concentrations. A commercial human ACTH radioimmunoassay (RIA) was used to quantify equine plasma ACTH. Intra-assay and interassay variations, as well as dilutional parallelism were determined during the RIA validation. Plasma ACTH concentrations were evaluated in a group of healthy equids composed of 18 horses and 9 ponies, and in 22 equids with a clinical diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism (11 horses and 11 ponies). The mean plasma ACTH concentrations in healthy horses and ponies, (18.68 +/- 6.79 pg/mL (mean +/- SD) and 8.35 +/- 2.92 pg/mL, respectively), were significantly different (P = .009). The mean plasma ACTH concentration in horses and ponies with ECD, (199.18 +/- 182.82 pg/mL and 206.21 +/- 319.56 pg/mL, respectively), were significantly higher than the mean ACTH concentration in the control animals (P < .001). Plasma ACTH concentrations appeared to be a sensitive and specific indicator of ECD in horses and ponies. ACTH concentrations measured in plasma samples kept at room temperature (19 degrees C) as long as 3 hours after blood collection were not statistically different from those of samples kept at 1 degree C.

Equine pleuropneumonia

Pleuropneumonia is a clinically important equine disease, predisposed by a number of identifiable factors. Successful management is largely dependent on early identification and prompt initiation of appropriate treatment strategies. Rapid resolution of the disease process is associated with appropriate treatment commenced within 48 h of the causative insult. Lower airway contamination by oropharyngeal organisms and subsequent extension into the pulmonary parenchyma results in respiratory dysfunction and systemic toxaemia. Acute disease is associated with the isolation of facultatively anaerobic organisms, especially beta-haemolytic Streptococcus spp. and Pasteurellaceae. Delayed or inappropriate treatment is likely to result in chronic disease characterized by the involvement of anaerobic bacteria and a poor response to therapy. The primary mode of treatment for anaerobic infection of the human thorax is surgical drainage and resection of necrotic tissue but whilst such techniques have been described for the management of equine pleuropneumonia, the size of the equine thoracic cavity hinders accurate diagnostic evaluation and successful completion of such intervention. The chronic nature and cost of ongoing treatment and limitations on choice of antimicrobial agents warrant a poor prognosis for survival and a poorer prognosis for return to athletic endeavour.