Lipidomics and biochemical profiling of adult Yili horses in a 26 km endurance race: exploring metabolic adaptations.
Authors: Chang Xiaokang, Zhang Zihan, Yao Xinkui, Meng Jun, Ren Wanlu, Zeng Yaqi
Journal: Frontiers in veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary During prolonged endurance exercise, horses shift substantially toward lipid metabolism to sustain energy demands, yet the precise regulatory mechanisms governing this metabolic shift remain poorly understood. Researchers collected blood samples from 12 Yili horses before and after a 26 km race, stratifying animals by endurance performance (excellent, general, ordinary), and conducted comprehensive lipidomic and biochemical analysis to identify metabolic signatures associated with superior performance. Beyond expected changes in albumin, alanine aminotransferase, and blood urea nitrogen levels, the study identified 1,537 differential lipid metabolites predominantly involved in fatty acid biosynthesis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and aldosterone-mediated sodium reabsorption—pathways critical for sustained energy mobilisation and electrolyte homeostasis during intense exertion. Two specific phospholipid species, PC (18:3/18:4) and PI (18:1/18:2), emerged as potential biomarkers capable of distinguishing endurance capacity between horses. For practitioners involved in endurance horse selection, conditioning, and performance optimisation, these findings suggest that targeted monitoring of lipid metabolism and specific phospholipid profiles could inform breeding decisions and training protocols whilst offering measurable biochemical indicators of metabolic fitness prior to competition.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Blood lipid and biochemical profiles before competition may help predict endurance performance capacity in horses entered for long-distance events
- •Monitoring albumin, ALT, and BUN levels could support selection of horses with better endurance genetics and training readiness
- •Understanding lipid metabolism pathways activated during 26 km endurance efforts provides objective criteria for training periodization and nutritional support in endurance programmes
Key Findings
- •Albumin levels were significantly higher in general performers pre-race but lower post-race compared to excellent performers (p < 0.05)
- •Pre-race ALT was significantly higher in excellent performers than general performers (p < 0.05)
- •1,537 lipid differential metabolites were identified, enriched primarily in fatty acid biosynthesis, cortisol synthesis, and steroid hormone biosynthesis pathways
- •PC (18:3/18:4) and PI (18:1/18:2) were identified as potential biomarkers for distinguishing endurance performance levels