Horses, like humans, can suffer from joint diseases such as osteoarthritis (OA) and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), which can lead to pain and lameness. Currently, diagnosing these conditions early is challenging, and there’s no treatment that can reverse the damage.

In a pathfinding study, Ontario Veterinary College researchers are investigating tiny molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) present in blood and joint fluid. What they are finding is that certain miRNAs could be used to predict the onset of joint diseases, potentially leading to earlier and more effective treatments.

Not only could micoRNAs be early predictors of OA and OCD but there is excitement over the potential for them to play a role in targeting new treatments. These molecules can influence various biological processes such as regulating inflammation, cartilage decay, cell death in cartilage, and changes in the extracellular matrix.

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