Ann. Méd. Vét., 2005, 149 (1), pp 1 - 9 Physiological and pathological impact of oxidative stress in the equine speciesB. DE MOFFARTS, N. KIRSCHVINK, J. PINCEMAIL, P. LEKEUXAbstract :
Oxidative stress has become of increasing interest in research and in equine and human medicine. If the pro-oxidant burden overwhelms the endogenous antioxidant defence of the organism, the arising imbalance between pro- and antioxidants is defined as oxidative stress. Different pathways might increase the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and results in oxidative stress. In physiological conditions, like during moderated exercise, the balance between ROS production and antioxidants allows to maintain an optimal organic function. In the light of the potentially deleterious role of excessive ROS production and the evidence that exercise-induced oxidative stress occurs in horses, the assessment of the antioxidant status should be considered in sport horses. Recent researches indicate that oxidative stress may play a role in physiopathology of several pathological syndromes in horses. Therefore, with classical treatment, the controlled administration of antioxidants appears interesting for the modulation of these processes, as well as in sport horses during intense exercise period. Get the PDF Contact person : Pierre.Lekeux@ulg.ac.be |