Inflammation and response to bacterial infection as potential drivers of equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis: A proteomics insight.
Authors: Jensen Anders, Clarke Emily J, Nugent Zoe, Paice Emily, Gringel Iris, Yamamoto Kazuhiro, Rocchigiani Guido, Peffers Andrew J, Cooper Lee, Peffers Mandy J
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: EOTRH and Inflammatory Pathways Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis (EOTRH) remains poorly understood despite its significant impact on incisor health, performance and welfare, with affected horses at risk of secondary infections and colic-related complications. Using proteomics analysis, Jensen and colleagues examined inflammatory markers and bacterial infection responses in dental tissues from horses with EOTRH compared to healthy controls, aiming to identify the underlying biological drivers of this destructive condition. The research revealed that inflammatory pathways and immune responses to bacterial infection are substantially dysregulated in EOTRH-affected teeth, with specific protein markers indicating both active inflammation and compromised antimicrobial defences. These findings suggest EOTRH may result from a combination of aberrant inflammatory responses and the horse's inability to effectively control bacterial colonisation within the tooth and surrounding periodontal tissues. For practitioners, this evidence supports the importance of early intervention before irreversible resorption occurs, and highlights that EOTRH management may benefit from strategies addressing both infection control and inflammatory modulation alongside mechanical extraction where necessary.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Early identification of inflammatory markers and bacterial involvement may enable earlier diagnosis and intervention in horses showing signs of EOTRH
- •Understanding the inflammation-infection link could inform preventive management strategies and targeted therapeutic approaches for affected horses
- •Practitioners should recognize EOTRH as a significant dental disease with systemic health implications requiring prompt veterinary attention
Key Findings
- •Inflammation and bacterial infection are identified as potential drivers of EOTRH development in horses
- •Proteomics analysis provides molecular insights into EOTRH pathogenesis
- •EOTRH primarily affects incisor teeth and can lead to secondary complications including colic