Systemic bone growth factors in light breed mares and their foals

Abstract
There is a high incidence of bony pathology in race horses. Thus, plasma GH, IGF-1, osteocalcin (OC), calcium (Ca) and inorganic phosphorus (P) concentrations were measured in 12 healthy Selle Frangais foals and their dams during the first five months after birth. Plasma IGF-1 and OC concentrations were higher in foals than in mares (336 ± 25 vs 230 ± 18ng/ml, Pvs 4.9 ± 0.1 ng/mg, PP<0.05). Another striking evidence was the increase in plasma IGF-1, OC and P concentrations observed during the first week of postnatal life. IGF-1, OC, P and Ca concentrations remained elevated during the experimental period, indicating an intense skeletal growth (confirmed by growth curve) in these animals.