Arthrospira platensis enriched with Cr(III), Mg(II), and Mn(II) ions improves insulin sensitivity and reduces systemic inflammation in equine metabolic affected horses.
Authors: Artur Tomal, Jolanta Szłapka-Kosarzewska, Małgorzata Mironiuk, Izabela Michalak, Krzysztof Marycz
Journal: Frontiers in endocrinology
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Micronutrient-Enriched Spirulina as an EMS Intervention Equine metabolic syndrome represents a significant clinical challenge characterised by insulin resistance, hyperinsulinaemia, and systemic inflammation; this 2024 study explored whether Arthrospira platensis (spirulina) enriched with chromium(III), magnesium(II), and manganese(II) via biosorption could ameliorate these metabolic derangements in affected horses. Researchers supplemented EMS-diagnosed animals with the mineral-enriched algae and measured insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, inflammatory markers, and body composition changes over the intervention period. The supplemented group demonstrated meaningful improvements across multiple parameters: reduced baseline insulin and glucose concentrations, decreased adipose tissue inflammation, lower triglyceride and aspartate aminotransferase levels (suggesting reduced hepatic lipid accumulation), and measurable reductions in body weight alongside improved body condition and cresty neck scores. For practitioners managing EMS cases, these findings suggest that a targeted micronutrient-enriched supplement may offer a complementary tool to conventional dietary restriction and exercise protocols, particularly given the bioavailability advantages of the biosorption-enriched formulation and the multiple metabolic pathways addressed simultaneously. Further work establishing optimal dosage, duration of supplementation, and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional management would strengthen the case for clinical adoption.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Arthrospira-based feed additive enriched with chromium, magnesium, and manganese may help manage insulin resistance and weight in metabolically affected horses as part of a comprehensive EMS management program
- •This supplement shows promise for reducing inflammatory markers and improving body condition in horses with EMS, potentially reducing reliance on other management interventions
- •Consider this as a complementary strategy alongside diet management and exercise for horses struggling with metabolic syndrome
Key Findings
- •Arthrospira platensis supplementation reduced baseline insulin and glucose levels in EMS-affected horses
- •Supplementation decreased body weight, improved body condition scores, and reduced cresty neck scores
- •Triglyceride and aspartate aminotransferase levels decreased, indicating reduced hepatic adiposity and inflammation
- •Adipose tissue inflammation was reduced through improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance