RIRDC Completed Projects in 2001-2002 & Research in Progress as at June 2002

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3.5 HORSES  COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT No

PROJECT TITLE

RESEARCHER

PHONE

ORGANISATION

1. Information Technology for the Horse Industry

US-101A

International Horse Industry Symposium

Dr William Howey

(02) 9351 7971

The University of Sydney

2. Industry Development and Development of Equine Research Infrastructure in Australia

US-102A

Racecourse Managers Research Planning Workshop

Ms Shirley Ray

(02) 9352 6932

The University of Sydney

US-103A

Production of a manual of equine exotic disease for the horse owner

Dr Jennifer Hodgson

(02) 4655 0745

The University of Sydney

3. Respiratory Diseases-Improving the Respiratory Health of Horses

UMA-15A

Improved vaccine strategies for management of equine herpesvirus diseases

A/Prof Millar Whalley A/Prof Daria Love

(02) 9850 8200 (02) 9351 2454

Macquarie University The University of Sydney

UMU-25A

Role of equine herpesvirus type 2 and 5 in respiratory disease

A/Prof Graham Wilcox

(08) 9360 2448

Murdoch University

5. Lameness and Limb Injury-Developing More Effective Methods for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment

UF-7A

Monitoring Falls During Eventing — A pilot project to determine the feasibility of monitoring horse and rider fall-related injuries during the cross-country phase of eventing

Dr Raymond Cripps

(08) 8374 0970

Flinders University of South Australia

UMU-24A

Investigation into radiographic changes in the carpus (C3) in racehorses

Dr Catherine Steel

(08) 9360 2356

Murdoch University

UQ-71A

Novel anti-inflammatory drugs to treat inflammatory diseases in horses

Dr Stephen Taylor

(07) 3365 3124

The University of Queensland

UQ-75A

The pathogenesis and prevention of equine laminitis

Dr Christopher Pollitt

(07) 3365 2063

The University of Queensland

8. Improving Racetracks and Working Surfaces for Horses

PTP-17A

6th Australian racecourse manager's conference – 2001

Mr Arthur Stubbs

(03) 9844 1135

Primary Tasks Pty Ltd

1. Information Technology for the Horse Industry
 

Project Title:	The International Horse Industry Symposium
RIRDC Project No.:	US-101A
Researcher:	Dr Bill Howey
Organisation:	PostGraduate Foundation in Veterinary Science Level 2, Conference Centre Building 22 Regimental Cres. University NSW 2006
Phone:	029351 7979
Fax:	029351 7968
Email:	howeywp@pgf.edu.au
Objectives	· The presentation of the latest information in research and development in the horse industry · Enhancement of the interchange between researchers and the horse industry · Dissemination of informed veterinary opinion to the discerning horse owning public · The establishment of a synergistic collaborative post graduate network of equine research scientists
Background	The Post Graduate Foundation in Veterinary Science is an organisation committed to the mission of continuing veterinary education and enhanced professional development for veterinary graduates, equine research scientists and the horse industry.
Research	A 3 day seminar coordinated by the Post Graduate Foundation in Veterinary Science incorporating days for research presentations and streamed delivery of informed opinion to various horse industry sectors was held at the University of Sydney. Two highly skilled and internationally recognised key speakers, Dr Peter Rossdale and Professor Leo Jeffcott presented papers on research in general as well as their particular areas of interest. Attendees came from all sectors of the horse industry.
Outcomes	The symposium provided an effective arena for the communication of the latest advances in the areas of Molecular and Advanced Technologies, Growth and Development, Nutrition and disease to all areas of the horse industry.  Presentations by postgraduate students undertaking equine research were outstanding and it was generally agreed that the future of equine research in Australia is looking very good.
Implications	Discussions during day 1 of the symposium, focussing on the draft RIRDC 5-Year Plan for Equine Research suggested that a comprehensive range of research areas be included to encourage current researchers to continue their research interests.
Publications	"International Horse Industry Symposium" proceedings available from the University of Sydney Post Graduate Foundation in Veterinary Science.

2. Industry Development and Development of Equine Research Infrastructure in Australia
 

Project Title:	Racecourse R&D Workshop
RIRDC Project No.:	US-102A
Researcher:	Shirley Ray
Organisation:	University of Sydney
Phone:	02 9351 6932
Fax:	02 9351 3056
Email:	shirleyr@camden.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	· understand the key R&D issues relating to racetrack maintenance upgrade and design · link racecourse managers with researchers · develop clear priorities for R&D projects that will provide outcomes for the racing industry
Background	The workshop was the outcome of a short forum on research and development priorities for racecourse management, held at the 5th Racecourse Manager’s Conference in Melbourne in June 2000. A follow-up workshop was then proposed to discuss options and implementation of research and development.
Research	Seventeen people were invited to attend the workshop, including four involved with racecourse management, five associated with turf and track surface research, three veterinarians working on horse performance a racecourse design engineer and four members of the RIRDC Equine R&D committee. Two syndicate groups discussed and reported on the current relevance of various issues and priorities for racecourse R&D followed by possible projects, including objectives, methodology and benefits.
Outcomes	The Workshop produced outlines for two similar R&D projects, both connected with collection and collation of data that provides objective measurements of track shape, surface maintenance and use and the relationship of that data to horse injury, durability and performance. Racecourse R&D priorities were listed for comment and rating by participants for future attention.
Implications	The involvement of racing industry stakeholders in these projects will be important pooling of knowledge and capabilities and joint "ownership" of the R&D work and results. The benefits of the proposed projects will include: definition of recommended track construction and maintenance practices for safe and consistent training and racing and identification of parameters for prediction of horse performance and injury.


 

Project Title:	Equine Exotic Diseases. A Manual for Horse Owners
RIRDC Project No.:	US 103A
Researcher:	Dr Jennifer Hodgson
Organisation:	University of Sydney
Phone:	(02) 4655 0760
Fax:	(02) 4655 1212
Email:	jennih@camden.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	Australia is in the privileged position of being free of many of the serious infectious diseases of horses that are found elsewhere in the world. However, in this era of increasing globalisation and international movement of horses, the risk for the introduction of an exotic disease to our equine population is increasing. The purpose of this manual is to increase awareness within the horse community of the exotic diseases that may affect horses and outline the ways that horse owners can play a role in preventing their introduction.
Background	Exotic or foreign diseases are those diseases caused by infectious organisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites) that are not usually present in Australia, but may be introduced either temporarily or permanently. If a serious exotic disease were to be to be introduced to our horse population, the effects could be tremendous and would be felt by all members of the equine community. Not only would there be economic losses associated with the outbreak of a serious exotic disease, but the potential loss of horse’s lives must also be a consideration. In order to prevent this from occurring we need knowledgeable horse men and women who are aware of these diseases, know how to help prevent their introduction, and what they should do if they suspect an exotic disease has been introduced.
Research	The book entitled "Equine Exotic Diseases – A Manual for Horses Owners" provides the Australian horse owner with information about exotic diseases of horses. The manual first presents some background facts and figures on the exotic equine diseases such as how they may enter Australia, how they may spread around Australia, and the risk factors that can influence the likelihood of their introduction. Interviews with horse people are included, and offer viewpoints on the significance of exotic diseases for the Australian equine industry. The specific exotic diseases are then discussed, with emphasis on how the horse may appear (clinical signs). In this way horse owners can be alert to these signs and can notify the appropriate authorities should they notice anything unusual. The manual also provides information on what a horse owner should do if they suspect an exotic horse disease and what precautions they should take to help prevent their introduction.
Outcomes	Everyone in the horse industry has a role to play in preventing an outbreak of an exotic disease. By increasing our knowledge of these diseases we can more effectively ensure that we fulfil this role. Maintenance of Australia’s disease-free status for these serious equine infections is the desired end result. The benefits of this outcome for our horse owners, horse industry and equine export industry are clear.


 

3. Respiratory Diseases-Improving the Respiratory Health of Horses
 

Project Title:	Improved Vaccine Strategies for Management of Equine Herpesvirus Diseases
RIRDC Project No.:	UMA-15A
Researcher:	Associate Professors J. M. Whalley & D. N. Love
Organisation:	Macquarie University University of Sydney
Phone:	02 9850 8200
Fax:	02 9850 8245
Email:	mwhalley@rna.bio.mq.edu.au
Objectives	Objectives:Consistent with the RIRDC Five-Year Plan, the overall objectives were to improve reproductive efficiency and respiratory health in horse populations by reduction of incidence of herpesvirus abortion and respiratory infection. Specifically, the project aimed: a) to obtain updated epidemiological information on incidence of equine herpesviruses 1 (EHV-1) and equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4) in populations of horses that had been vaccinated, and b) to assess the effectiveness and use of different types of vaccines for EHV-1 and EHV-4.
Background	EHV-1 continues to be a cause world-wide of epidemic abortion, perinatal mortality, respiratory disease and occasionally neurological signs in horses. Prior to 1997 in Australia, we described a silent cycle of infection by EHV-1 (and EHV-4) in unvaccinated horse populations. This project examined the effect of vaccination on this cycle. In addition a new EHV-1 subunit vaccine was compared with other vaccine strategies including a whole virus vaccine.
Research	Epidemiology: The seroepidemiological and DNA data indicated that EHV-1 infection and spread were continuing to occur from 1998 - 2000. Therefore, although the current vaccine can elicit immune responses in a percentage of horses, the cycle of EHV-1 (and EHV-4) infection continues in the vaccinated population in a similar manner to unvaccinated horses. Vaccines: Response to vaccination in the field. This study measured antibody responses to vaccination of 159 mares and 101 foals on a large stud farm with a whole virus EHV-1/4 vaccine. 29% of mares, and 47% of foals were classed as responding to vaccination. 17% of mares were classified as persistently seropositive. In general both mares and foals with higher antibody levels had poor reponses to vaccination.  Comparison of vaccines Over 90% of adult horses showed a strong antibody response to a new subunit vaccine. Although only a single antigen, the subunit vaccine generated comparable antibody responses to the whole virus vaccine.
Outcomes	· Information that EHV-1 continues to circulate between mares and foals in vaccinated stud farm populations  · A recombinant subunit protein gD of EHV-1 elicits strong antiviral immune responses against EHV-1 (and EHV-4), confirming this antigen as an excellent vaccine candidate that has the potential to replace whole virus vaccines.
Implications	The continued presence of EHV-1 (and EHV-4) in vaccinated populations means that careful management practices need to be maintained. Knowledge of antibody status may allow a more selective vaccination strategy, representing considerable savings. New approaches to vaccination are required, possibly based on subunit vaccines, which can be manipulated to optimize protective immune responses.
Publications	· Gilkerson, J. R., Whalley, J. M., Drummer, H. E., Studdert, M. J. & Love, D. N. (1999). Epidemiological studies of EHV-1 in Thoroughbred foals: a review of studies conducted in the Hunter Valley of New South Wales between 1995 and 1997. Veterinary Microbiology 68, 15-25. · Ruitenberg, K. M., Love, D. N., Gilkerson, J. R., Wellington, J. E. & Whalley, J. M.(2000). EHV-1 glycoprotein D DNA inoculation in horses with pre-existing EHV-1/EHV-4 antibody. Veterinary Microbiology 76, 117-127. · Gilkerson, J. R., Love, D. N. & Whalley, J. M. (2000). Incidence of equine herpesvirus 1 infection in Thoroughbred weanlings on two stud farms. Australian Veterinary Journal 78, 277-278. · Foote, C. E., Love, D. N., Gilkerson, J. R., & Whalley, J. M. (2002). Serological responses of mares and weanlings following vaccination with an inactivated whole virus EHV-1 and EHV-4 vaccine Veterinary Microbiology (in press)

Project Title:	Role of equine herpesvirus types 2 and 5 in respiratory disease
RIRDC Project No.:	UMU-25A
Researcher:	Prof Graham Wilcox Dr Sharanne Raidal
Organisation:	School of Veterinary Biology and Biomedical Sciences Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Murdoch University
Phone:	08 9360 2448
Fax:	08 9310 4144
Email:	wilcox@numbat.murdoch.edu.au sharanne@numbat.murdoch.edu.au
Objectives	· to provide evidence that some strains of EHV2 are causes of respiratory disease, perhaps acting as stressors activating other latent equine herpesviruses. · this is a pilot project to assess the importance of EHV2 as a potential pathogen prior to undertaking a more complete project to assess the role of latency of EHV2 and other herpesviruses in the persistence and pathogenesis of these virus infections.
Background	Previous studies (RIRDC publication No 00/146) demonstrated a high prevalence of EHV in horses not showing evidence of respiratory disease. In the absence of clinical signs, it was assumed that the virus detected may have been latent. Improved technologies, able to discriminate latent (inactive) virus from active infection, are required so that the contribution of latent virus infection to clinical disease can be determined. We have also produced evidence linking EHV2, possibly in association with EHV4, with respiratory disease in young horses. Further studies are required to clarify the significance of EHV2, and the recently recognised EHV5, as pathogens in horses.
Research	Epidemiological study to detect equine herpesviruses associated with respiratory disease in young horses: NS and peripheral blood samples were obtained from weaned and unweaned foals at 7 Thoroughbred (n=119) and 5 Standardbred studs (n=49). Serial samples were obtained from foals on seven properties. Samples were collected from additional Thoroughbred (n=43) and Standardbred (n=30) yearlings.  Experimental infection of horses with EHV2: Mixed breed yearling horses (14) were experimentally infected with EHV2 isolated from horses with respiratory disease (n=8) or served as uninfected controls (n=6).
Outcomes	EHV2 was detected in samples collected from 29 foals with respiratory disease on two studs. Serial sampling demonstrated that EHV2 was not detected after resolution of disease. Re-sampling of horses, where possible, prior to and/or after yearling sales in February/March 2001showed that EHV2 was uncommonly identified in samples from healthy horses, but major outbreaks of respiratory were not observed in this cohort of horses at these times. EHV5 was commonly identified in NS and peripheral blood samples from unweaned, weaned and yearling horses. Infection with EHV2 was difficult to achieve in the experimental horses, requiring large doses of infectious virus in sedated horses (unsedated horses appeared to be able to rapidly clear the viral inoculum). Clinical signs of serous or mucoid nasal and/or ocular discharge were associated with transient shedding of EHV2 from infected horses. The EHV2-induced disease was self-limiting with complete recovery within 10 – 14 days. Over the course of the study, shedding of EHV2 and EHV4 was observed in uninfected horses, associated with clinical signs of mild respiratory disease, and was assumed to be due to the activation of latent virus.
Implications	Our results indicate that EHV5 is very common in young horses, that primary infection occurs prior to weaning and that EHV5 infection appears to persist in young horses. We have not yet determined if EHV5 infection is associated with the detection of actively replicating or latent virus. This will be determined during the continuing project on latent equine herpesvirus infections in the horse (UMU-28A)  EHV2, in contrast to EHV5, was less commonly isolated from young horses, and its presence was associated with the occurrence of mild respiratory disease in young horses.
Publications	The results obtained during this pilot study will be presented in part during a talk by Wilcox GE on "Latent Equine herpesvirus infection" at the July 2001 Horse Industry Symposium, Sydney. Papers that are now being sent for publication are: A nested multiplex PCR for the detection and differentiation of equine herpes virus 1, 2, 4 and 5, by Liping Wang, Sharanne Raidal and Graham E. Wilcox. An association between equine herpesvirus 2 (EHV2) and respiratory disease in young horses, by Liping Wang, A Pizzirani, GE Wilcox and Sharanne Raidal. · The association of equine herpesviruses (EHV) with respiratory disease and poor performance in adult horses in Western Australia, by Liping Wang, GE Wilcox, CM Steel and SL Raidal.

5. Lameness and Limb Injury-Developing More Effective Methods for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment
 

Project Title:	Monitoring Falls During Eventing — A pilot project to determine the feasibility of monitoring horse and rider fall-related injuries during the cross-country phase of eventing
RIRDC Project No.:	UF-7A
Researcher:	Raymond A. Cripps
Organisation:	Flinders University Research Centre for Injury Studies Bedford Park SA 5158
Phone:	08 8374 0970
Fax:	08 8374 0702
Email:	Ray.cripps@nisu.flinders.edu.au
Objectives	To see if monitoring of falls and injuries to horse and riders during the cross-country phase of eventing in NSW and SA is feasible.
Background	In Australia, no monitoring of falls and injuries to horse and riders currently occur. A recent marked increase in the number of rider deaths associated with the sport of eventing (both in Australia and overseas) has focused attention on rider safety. At the same time, the number of claims made on the EFA’s national member accident insurance policy has also highlighted the relatively high cost of injuries incurred in activities associated with horses. There has been no collection of data on the health, social or financial costs of such injuries. If the equestrian community is to develop policies for prevention and management of these injuries, and their associated costs, accurate data is needed on which to base the policy development, and any strategic directions for equestrian associations and interested medical/health bodies.
Research	A process to collect information on the event, riders and falls was set up in NSW and SA and data was collected during the 2001 eventing season. Several data collection instruments (Falls Report Form and a Questionnaire) were developed and refined and used to collect data for the study. One hundred and seventy-two falls occurred with some riders having more than one fall during the eventing season. The results indicated that the rate of falls was low in NSW and SA (1.4 and 2.4 falls per 1000 jumping efforts, respectively). However, the rate of falls increased as the level of competition increased from Pre-novice to Advanced classes. Twenty-eight per cent of the riders who fell reported injuries from falling. Injury to the upper body was reported in two-thirds of the injured riders. Most injuries were minor, but eleven went to the Emergency Department for treatment and eight were admitted to hospital. Head injuries and fractures were treated in hospital.
Outcomes	The pilot demonstrated that monitoring of falls during the cross-country phase of eventing was feasible and the information collected was suitable for a surveillance system and of high value. As a result of this pilot project, a national surveillance system to monitor falls and their injuries will be set up in all states and will collect horse and riders’ fall data during the 2002 and 2003 eventing season.
Implications	The implementation of a national surveillance system to monitor falls in Australia is a world first. It supports the safety initiatives of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and Equestrian Federation of Australia (EFA). The data obtained will support a program of research on injury prevention and the development of counter-measures to reduce falls and injuries during eventing
Publications	Cripps RA, Pagano H, O’Brien D 2002. Feasibility of establishing a national surveillance program to monitor falls during eventing in Australia: A pilot study. RIRDC funded project, in progress. Cripps RA, Steenkamp M, Harrison JH 2002. Injury hospital morbidity, Australia 1998–99. Injury Research and Statistics Series. Adelaide: AIHW, in press Steenkamp M & Cripps RA 2001. Child injuries due to falls. Injury Research and Statistics Series. Adelaide: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW cat no. INJCAT 37). Cripps RA & Carman J 2001. Falls by the elderly in Australia: Trends and data for 1998. Injury Research and Statistics Series. Adelaide: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW cat no. INJCAT 35). Cripps RA. Horse-related injury in Australia. Australian Injury Prevention Bulletin 24, AIHW Cat. No. INJ26, May 2000. Research Centre for Injury Studies, Flinders University, 2000. O’Connor P & Cripps R 1999. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) surveillance issues: a discussion paper. Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. O’Connor P, Bordeaux S, Cripps R 1999. Assembly of statistical information on road crashes and road injury in rural and remote areas of South Australia. Adelaide: Flinders University, Research Centre for Injury Studies. Cripps RA, O'Connor PJ. 1998. Spinal Cord Injury, Australia 1996/97. Australian Injury Prevention Bulletin 18, AIHW Cat. No. INJ013, April. Adelaide: Research Centre for Injury Studies, Flinders University of South Australia. Harrison J & Cripps R 1994. Injury in Australia: an epidemiological review. Canberra: Commonwealth Department of Human Services and Health.


 

Project Title:	Investigation into radiographic changes in the carpus (C3) in racehorses
RIRDC Project No.:		UMU-24A
Researcher:		Dr CM (Kate) Steel, Dr Belinda Hopper, Dr Jennifer Richardson, Dr Guy Alexander, and Assoc. Prof. Ian Robertson.
Organisation:		Division of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Murdoch University South Street Murdoch WA 6150
Phone:		08 9360 2356
Fax:		08 9310 7495
Email:		csteel@central.murdoch.edu.au; jennyr@numbat.murdoch.edu.au; blgwynne@numbat.murdoch.edu.au
Objectives		· The main objectives of this research were:  · To develop a protocol that can be readily applied by veterinarians for describing exercise-induced radiographic changes (sclerosis) in the third carpal bone (C3)  · To determine the clinical significance of these changes, and in doing so develop a better understanding of the role of C3 sclerosis in carpal lameness in young Standardbred racehorses.  · To identify predisposing factors for carpal lameness in these horses · To determine the effect of carpal lameness on the prognosis for racing success in young Standardbred racehorses  · To evaluate the effect of rest, reduced training, and continued race training on clinical and radiographic findings and outcome in horses that developed carpal lameness with C3 sclerosis  · To determine the extent of C3 pathology that may be overlooked on routine radiographs by comparing radiographic and CT images from horses
Background		Although the importance of C3 sclerosis as a cause of lameness has been recognized, there is an incomplete understanding of many aspects of this condition. A large-scale prospective clinical study of the radiographic development of C3 sclerosis and other carpal lesions over time has not been reported. An improved understanding of the significance of radiographic changes in C3 would permit more strategic training of horses and assist clinicians in interpreting carpal radiographs, predicting the onset of joint disease, and in making recommendations for the management of affected horses.
Research		114 Standardbred horses, all pacers, were examined for lameness and had radiographs taken of both carpi throughout the first 12-18 months of race training. In the first part of the study, we described the radiographic changes that occurred in C3 with race training, determined the clinical significance of various radiographic changes in C3, and defined the extent of sclerosis that may be considered a normal exercise-induced adaptive change, and that which is inappropriate for various stages of training and associated with carpal lameness. In the second part of the study we determined the importance of carpal lameness as a cause of wastage in these horses, described the clinical findings associated with carpal lameness due to C3 sclerosis, and investigated the potential for age at onset of training, conformation, and type of training to act as predisposing factors for carpal lameness. In addition, we determined the effect of C3 sclerosis as a cause of lameness on the prognosis for racing success, and evaluated the effect of rest, reduced training, and continued race training on the clinical findings and outcome in horses that developed carpal lameness. In the third part of the study, we described the computed tomography (CT) appearance of C3 and determined the usefulness of radiography in demonstrating the extent of bone pathology by comparing the radiographic and CT images from 19 Thoroughbred horses with various exercise histories.

Outcomes	We established that carpal lameness is common in Standardbred horses in their first year of training and racing. It is an important cause of lost training days, and can result in reduced performance and premature retirement. Intercarpal joint lameness developed in 28% of 114 horses, and was diagnosed in 56% of cases of forelimb lameness. Lameness that responded to intercarpal joint anaesthesia, in the absence of other radiographic signs of joint disease, was attributed to C3 sclerosis in most horses. Results of scintigraphic examination of a limited number of horses lent support to this assumption. In Chapter 1 of this study, a system of obtaining skyline views that were repeatable and of sufficient quality for diagnosis was described and a new protocol for describing subchondral bone sclerosis and associated radiographic changes in C3 was developed that can be readily applied by veterinarians in practice. We identified that two radiographic parameters, the maximum trabecular score and the area of the radial facet affected by sclerosis (% total sclerosis), were most useful for correlating sclerosis with lameness and performance, and these formed the basis of the new grading guidelines. A continuous increase in C3 radiographic sclerosis with time in young Standardbred horses in race training was evident. Once horses had commenced racing, the parameters of trabecular score and % total sclerosis were useful indicators and predictors of lameness due to C3 sclerosis. There was a highly significant difference in incidence of lameness between horses with mild sclerosis (0%) and severe sclerosis (43%). However, the finding that some horses with severe sclerosis remained sound throughout the study highlights the need for other diagnostic imaging techniques to distinguish pathological C3 sclerosis. We concluded that horses with severe C3 sclerosis are more likely to be lame and may have less athletic potential than horses with lesser radiographic changes, however, C3 sclerosis and carpal lameness does not necessarily preclude a horse from having a successful racing career. We also concluded that radiography is useful in diagnosis but that a combination of diagnostic tests may be required to interpret the clinical significance of findings and confirm the diagnosis. Poor conformation was identified as a risk factor that may predispose individual horses to carpal lameness, but the age of horses when they started training, and training regime were not found to be risk factors, however, further investigation of the effect of training regime is warranted.  Our findings indicated that carpal lameness may develop at any stage of training. Diligent observation of young horses for lameness from the onset of training is therefore indicated. Further investigation as to why some horses suffer unusually drastic effects of light exercise is warranted. Rest was unlikely to result in a favourable outcome if lameness was associated with severe sclerosis and further evaluation of modified training as a management option for lameness associated with C3 sclerosis is needed. In general, there was a good correlation between the findings on CT images and radiographs in respect to sclerosis parameters, however, CT allowed identification of some lesions not apparent on radiographs.
Implications	Carpal lameness is an important cause of wastage in young Standardbreds in race training. We have developed an improved means of describing and interpreting the significance of radiographic changes in C3 and have an improved understanding of the role of C3 sclerosis and associated changes in carpal lameness.
Publications	There are no publications to date but a series of papers will be published in an appropriate veterinary journal

Project Title:	Novel anti-inflammatory drugs to treat inflammatory diseases in horses
RIRDC Project No.:	UQ 71A
Researcher:	I. Shiels and S. Taylor
Organisation:	University of Queensland St Lucia QLD 4072
Phone:	(07) 33653124
Fax:	(07) 33651766
Email:	S.Taylor@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Objectives	The project endeavored to determine the potential therapeutic value for horses of 2 novel antiinflammatory drugs and to identify diseases, which would provide therapeutic targets for the agents. The project also compared the efficacy of the new agents with a number of drugs that are currently used to treat horses, or are considered to be the most effective agents for the treatment of inflammatory diseases in humans.
Background	Inflammation is a universal process that can affect every organ system in the body. Some forms of inflammation are life threatening, like that which accompanies some forms of colic, or can cause permanent change in the function of the organ, as seen in chronic arthritis. The drugs currently available are not totally effective at controlling acute severe inflammation or reducing the damage caused by chronic inflammation. New antiinflammatory drugs are being developed to address some of the limitations of current drugs - like side effects and efficacy.
Research	The study evaluated 2 drugs in models of colic and arthritis and compared them with a number of aspirin-like drugs currently used in the clinic. These diseases were selected because current treatments do not significantly reduce the severity of the condition (colic) or prevent the structural damage, which accompanies the disease (arthritis).
Outcomes	One drug, an inhibitor of the inflammatory mediator C5a, was a potent inhibitor of inflammation in both disease models. The other drug, an inhibitor of an enzyme that is involved in the synthesis of a number of inflammatory mediators, had less efficacy, but performed better than the current therapeutic substances. The aspirin-like drugs performed poorly.
Implications	These drugs could be developed for veterinary use if further clinical testing is undertaken.


 

Project Title:	The pathogenesis and prevention of equine laminitis
RIRDC Project No.:	UQ-75A
Researcher:	Chris Pollitt
Organisation:	School of Veterinary Science The University of Queensland St Lucia Qld 4072.
Phone:	07 3365 2063
Fax:	07 3365 1899
Email:	c.pollitt@mailbox.uq.edu.au
Objectives	· Objective 1. Determine the role and control the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the pathogenesis of laminitis so that a product can be developed that will prevent and treat the disease. · Objective 2. Determine the role of changes in the pattern of glucose metabolism in the pathogenesis of laminitis as a basis for predicting and preventing laminitis.
Background	The key lesion of equine laminitis is failure of the connective tissue attachment apparatus that normally suspends the distal phalanx from the epidermal lamellae of the inner hoof wall. The aim of this project was to conduct research that would elucidate the pathogenesis of laminitis and ultimately lead to effective, rational prevention and treatment strategies.
Research	The nature of MMP enzymes that normally reshape the continually growing hoof wall was established. In laminitis, increased amounts of MMPs are produced and this leads to destruction of the attachments between bone and hoof. The attachments are fine ultrastructural filaments that activated MMPs target and destroy. Substances generated by hindgut bacteria activate lamellar MMPs and reach the feet via a dilated circulation. Limiting the amount of glucose available to lamellar hoof also destroys attachments between hoof and bone but by a different mechanism; the disappearance of small, discrete attachment discs called hemidesmosomes. The rate of hemidesmosme disappearance and loss of attachment filaments correlates with dose of carbohydrate alimentary overload
Outcomes	Methods to inhibit lamellar MMP enzymes have the potential to block the onset of laminitis and should be developed. Identification and purification of the bacterial laminitis trigger factors will lead to antidotes that could also block laminitis development. Laminitis trigger factors escape from the hindgut and reach the feet via the circulation. Limb cryotherapy effectively shuts down the circulation and should also be tried as a laminitis preventive. Since the severity of laminitis correlates with dose of carbohydrate in the hindgut, measures to manage carbohydrate intake of horses both in stables and at pasture, need investigating.
Implications	The new knowledge generated by this project, about the pathogenesis of laminitis, lays a foundation for the development of effective, new preventive and treatment strategies.
Publications	Mungall, B.A., Kyaw-Tanner, M. & Pollitt.C.C. (2001). In vitro evidence for a bacterial pathogenesis of equine laminitis. Vet. Microbiol. 2070: 1-15 Mungall, B.A & Pollitt, C.C. (2001). Thermolysin Activates Equine Lamellar Hoof Matrix Metalloproteinases. J. comp. Pathol. (in press)  Kyaw-Tanner, M., Mungall, B. A. & Pollitt C. C. (2001). Equine laminitis: matrix metalloproteinase-2 is up-regulated in the acute phase. Equine vet. J (in press).

8. Improving Racetracks and Working Surfaces for Horses
 

Project Title:	6th Australian Racecourse Managers’ Conference, 2001
RIRDC Project No.:	PTP-17A
Researcher:	Arthur Stubbs David McLaren
Organisation:	Primary Tasks Pty Ltd Turfgrass Technology Pty Ltd Unit 58, Level 2 9 George Street 247 Drummond Street Sandringham Vic 3191 Carlton Vic 3053
Phone:	03 9844 1135 03 9521 6982
Fax:	03 9844 4554 03 9521 6946
Email:	akstubbs@compuserve.com mclaren@turftech.com.au
Objectives	Improvement of inter-club communication and education on issues of racetrack care and maintenance for the development of effective, overall strategies for racecourse management.
Background	A survey of grass racecourses in Australia in 1995, funded by RIRDC, found a wide variation in the level of racecourse management expertise and technical knowledge. In addition, there was a sense of isolation by many racecourse managers and an expressed need for more information relevant to their jobs. This led to Racecourse Managers’ Conferences being held in subsequent years, at Rosehill, Moonee Valley, Doomben, Morphettville, Melbourne, and from August 13-15, 2001, the 6th Australian Racecourse Managers’ Conference, held at Randwick.
Outcomes	More than 120 people attended the conference, including 85 racecourse managers, supervisors and staff from throughout Australia and New Zealand, plus suppliers and consultants to the racecourse industry, research workers and turf specialists. The objective was achieved through delivery and discussion of technical papers relevant to racecourses, racecourse R & D developments, an industry forum on track conditions, inspections of racecourses, and general liaison between racecourse managers, turf researchers, supppliers and specialists. Delegates recommended that a similar forum be organised in Perth in 2002. A Racecourse Managers Conference Committee was formalised to review ideas and make future plans.
Implications	The conference will result in increased ability of racecourse managers’ to practise their profession and apply best practices, leading to higher standards of racecourse management. Benefits accrue from improvements in track performance, appearance and life, and associated economic and environmental advantages for racing clubs and the community. The conference also strengthened the resolve of racecourse managers to apply the accepted best practices, modified according to their particular situation, and armed them with the knowledge to justify their actions to the many stakeholders in the racing industry.
Publications	6th Australian Racecourse Managers’ Conference Proceedings, August, 2001.