Inflammatory mechanisms of endometritis.
Authors: Woodward E M, Troedsson M H T
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Inflammatory Mechanisms of Endometritis: Editorial Summary Post-breeding endometritis represents a necessary physiological response in mares, wherein controlled inflammation facilitates clearance of contaminating bacteria and excess spermatozoa from the uterus; however, a subset of mares develops persistent endometritis that jeopardises pregnancy establishment and represents a significant clinical challenge in equine reproduction. Woodward and Troedsson's 2015 review synthesises current understanding of the inflammatory pathways involved, examining how endometrial gene expression patterns during acute inflammation determine whether mares successfully resolve infection or progress to the persistent form that characterises subfertile individuals. The progression from transient to persistent endometritis hinges on dysregulated inflammatory cascades, with research increasingly focused on temporal expression of inflammatory mediators to identify the critical windows during which pathological changes become established. Understanding these molecular mechanisms is essential for equine practitioners, as it provides the rationale for optimising current therapeutic protocols (such as uterine lavage timing and anti-inflammatory strategies) and developing targeted interventions directed at specific inflammatory pathways rather than broad-spectrum approaches. This mechanistic knowledge enables more personalised reproductive management, particularly for mares with a history of susceptibility to persistent endometritis, improving outcomes in breeding programmes where these animals represent significant economic and genetic value.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Recognize that post-breeding inflammation is normal and beneficial in most mares; focus management efforts on identifying and monitoring the susceptible subpopulation at risk for persistent endometritis
- •Current understanding of inflammatory pathways is still developing—work closely with your reproduction specialist to implement evidence-based treatments and remain alert for emerging therapeutic options targeting specific disease mechanisms
- •Consider endometrial gene expression patterns as a potential diagnostic tool to identify mares prone to persistent endometritis earlier, allowing for more timely intervention before pregnancy is threatened
Key Findings
- •Transient post-breeding endometritis is a normal physiological response in mares necessary for clearing bacteria and excess spermatozoa from the uterus
- •A subpopulation of mares is susceptible to persistent endometritis that can compromise pregnancy success
- •Endometrial gene expression research is identifying specific inflammatory processes underlying susceptibility to persistent endometritis
- •Multiple factors contribute to disease susceptibility, with mechanisms still being elucidated to enable improved and targeted treatments