CD117 positive equine cord blood-derived cells – a fountain of cells suitable for equine cell-based therapies such as cartilage repair? - 2010-2011
Dr. Dorothee Bienzle, Department of Pathobiology, Co-investigators: Thomas Koch, Department of Clinical Studies; Dean H. Betts, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, UWO
The novel isolation of mesenchymal stem cells from equine cord blood reported by Koch and colleagues in 2007 from the Ontario Veterinary College has initiated a whole new area of equine veterinary research which is now being pursued at multiple institutions worldwide.
The long-term goal of this proposal is identification of cells suitable for novel cell-based therapies in the horse.
The objective of the proposal is to isolate cells from equine cord blood, which are superior for improving repair of focal cartilage injuries in the horse. Equine cord blood contains cells with potential to produce cartilage in a laboratory setting.
However, differences in cartilage potential were noted between different cell cultures. There is, therefore, a need to establish cell lines with a consistent and reproducible cartilage potential before these cells can be introduced into mainstream equine clinical practice.
The hypothesis of this proposal is that cord blood contains few, but very potent cells, which can be identified on a molecular level, and possess high proliferative and chondrogenic potential. The availability of well-characterized cell lines is the first prerequisite for pursuing commercialization of cell-based therapies.
Effect of mechanical stress on laminar junction remodeling. - Projects 2005-2006
Dr. Jeff Thomason
Mechanical stresses occur in hooves with every footfall, usually leading to adaptive responses over time. That is, the living and inert components of the hoof are remodeled to continue to withstand the imposed stresses. Like bones and muscles, the hoof has a need for some mechanical stimulation, but not too much or too little. Stresses in a beneficial range promote vascular activity and apparently adaptive remodeling. What this study will describe is how the laminar junction remodels in response to stress in a beneficial range. In conjunction with previous work on stresses and strains during different activities and on different substrates, the results will indicate the levels of exercise that are appropriate for good hoof function and structure.
Osteoarthritis: estrogens and cartilage interactions in the horse. - Projects 2004-2005
Dr. J. Raeside
Osteoarthritis is a common joint disease causing lameness in horses. No satisfactory treatment exists for longer-term resolution, though some progress is being made with both surgical and pharmacological approaches. Estrogens are responsible for many changes beyond the reproductive system; and an emerging concept is that some responses are due to special actions of estrogen metabolites formed in the target tissues themselves such cartilage in the joint. The study will address local metabolism of estrogen by cartilage and then examine the actions of estrogens on cartilage with a view to treatment, including cartilage cells in culture in preparation for grafting.
Identification and prediction of canon bone fractures in 2 and 3 year old racehorses. - Projects 2004-2005
Dr. M. Hurtig
This project is part of a more comprehensive program designed to reduce musculoskeletal injuries at Ontario racetracks by improving the monitoring of horses and racetrack surfaces. In previous work, the Comparative Orthopaedic Research Group has established the utility of using accelerometers for monitoring shoeing and track conditions. The current proposal expands the examination of horses presented from the Ontario Racing Commission Death Registry program to establish the incidence and location of microfractures in canon bones. Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS), a non-invasive technology that can be used on living horses for assessment of bone quality, will be correlated with three-dimensional imaging to link speed of sound measurements with bone pathology.
Characterization of nutritional factors affecting the rate of post-exercise muscle glycogen synthesis in horses. - Projects 2004-2005
Dr. R. Geor
The optimization of the energy supply in horses during athletic events is crucial. Muscle glycogen is the most important source and the replenishment of these stores is essential. This study addresses the factors affecting the rate of muscle glycogen depletion as well as dietary and feeding strategies that will assist in recovery post exercise. New information about the ability of the horse to digest different carbohydrates will be acquired and can be used as guidelines in formulating products.
Quantifying the hoof’s response to loading during exercise: changes in external shape, growth rate and internal anatomy. - Projects 2004-2005
Dr. J. Thomason
Hooves experience the shock of hitting the ground as well as the increasing force when bodyweight is transferred to the leg. The active response of the hoof to many factors such as gait, speed, substrate etc will be examined. With this knowledge, it should be possible to predict and prevent hoof lameness due to mechanical aetiology.
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