Horsetalk.co.nz Researchers shine spotlight on damaging inflammation in laminitis
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Production of a cytokine that promotes inflammation is increased in cases of supporting limb laminitis in horses, researchers report, a finding that could open the door to therapeutic interventions.
The study by Lynne Cassimeris, Julie Engiles and Hannah Galantino-Homer focused on the proinflammatory Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) pathway.
Cytokines are secreted by specific cells of the immune system. They are signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation, among other roles.
Supporting limb laminitis is a painful and crippling secondary complication of orthopedic injuries and infections in horses, often resulting in euthanasia.