Impact of exercise frequency, race distance, age, and pregnancy stage on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism in purebred Arabian mares.
Authors: Aiche Souad, Chikhaoui Mira, Smail Fadhèla, Benamor Naceur, Benia Ahmed Redha
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary Pregnancy inherently elevates oxidative stress in mares, with potential consequences for both maternal and foetal wellbeing, yet the protective or exacerbating effects of varying exercise regimens during gestation remain poorly characterised in the literature. This investigation examined 22 clinically sound Purebred Arabian mares stratified by age and training intensity, collecting blood samples during early and mid-pregnancy to measure oxidative stress markers (FRAP and TBARS) alongside lipid metabolism parameters (total cholesterol and triglycerides). Sedentary older mares demonstrated significantly elevated FRAP and TBARS levels in the first trimester (P < 0.05), with positive correlations established between advancing age and FRAP, and between pregnancy stage and TBARS; notably, racing frequency showed a negative correlation with FRAP levels, suggesting a protective effect. These findings indicate that age and exercise status substantially influence the oxidative stress burden during pregnancy in Arabian mares, with unexercised older animals appearing particularly vulnerable to oxidative imbalance. For equine practitioners managing pregnant mares—particularly those of advancing age—maintaining appropriate exercise and training regimens may represent a valuable strategy to mitigate pregnancy-associated oxidative stress, though individual assessment remains essential and further investigation into optimal exercise prescriptions during different gestational stages is warranted.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Older pregnant mares benefit from maintained exercise programs to reduce oxidative stress and support fetal health; complete rest may be counterproductive
- •Monitor oxidative stress markers more closely in non-exercised older mares during early pregnancy as they appear at higher risk
- •Moderate, appropriate exercise during pregnancy appears protective rather than harmful for Arabian mares
Key Findings
- •Oxidative stress markers (FRAP and TBARS) significantly increased during first trimester in unexercised older mares (P < 0.05)
- •Positive correlation observed between FRAP levels and age, and between TBARS levels and pregnancy stage
- •FRAP levels negatively correlated with racing frequency, indicating exercise reduces oxidative stress
- •Unexercised older pregnant mares showed greater susceptibility to oxidative imbalance compared to younger or exercised mares