New research will examine the gut microbiome and try to
identify changes that occur in horses with
The gut microbiome (the mixture of microorganisms [such as
bacteria and fungi] that live along the intestinal tract) is a topic of growing
interest in both human and veterinary medicine.
Changes in its composition have been associated with various
diseases in human medicine. Could changes in the microbial populations or their
metabolic activity, give an early indication of disease susceptibility?
PhD student, Ashley Ward, will be working with Dr Philippa
Morrison and Professor Caroline Argo, from Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) in
conjunction with WALTHAM and the Rowett Institute (University of Aberdeen).
The research is supported by funding from SPILLERS™, via the
brand’s science arm THE WALTHAM™ Equine Studies Group.
The project will run over three and a half years and will
build on existing work on the equine gut microbiome. The aim is to try and
identify changes in the faecal microbiome patterns or urinary molecules (ie
“biomarkers”) that could be used to predict a case of pasture-associated
laminitis.
Clare Barfoot RNutr, the Research and Development Manager at SPILLERS™ said: “We are excited about Ashley’s appointment to help progress this
new project. We hope it will improve our understanding of changes in the gut
microbiome/urinary metabolome associated with pasture-associated laminitis and
identify potential novel ways to intervene in its development.”
Ashley Ward added: “I am thrilled to be part of this
project, which will allow me to utilise my laboratory experience, develop my
skills in postgraduate research and, ultimately, produce work which will
supplement our current understanding of laminitis. I am passionate about
working to improve the outcome for horses and ponies that are likely to develop
laminitis.”
Eventually, the researchers hope the work will improve animal
welfare by allowing for timely preventative interventions.
Read more about SPILLERS’ important research work:
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