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Study reveals insights into equine hoof growth
Researchers used physics, maths and cell biology to explain how the dorsal hoof wall can grow in a curved manner.
Results suggest how abnormal hoof shapes may develop

A study combining physics and biology has revealed new insights into equine hoof growth and how abnormal hoof shape may develop.

Published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, the study reveals how it is possible for the hoof growth rate to be greater than the potential growth rate of epithelial cells. It also explains how the synthesis of the hoof capsule starts from the coronary band, and that the soft papillae undergo gradual transition through three interpapillary regions into hard keratinised tissue.

Researchers used physics, maths and cell biology to explain how the dorsal hoof wall can grow in a curved manner as a result of faster growth from the coronary band at the quarters compared to the toe region.

The study was conducted by the University of Nottingham’s School of Veterinary Medicine in collaboration with the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).

Study lead Dr Cyril Rauch said: “With new scientific inputs from physics, mathematics and biology, this study provides an entirely new paradigm regarding hard growing tissues such as the horse hoof, which can be applied across cattle, sheep and other species, to unify a set of apparently disparate conditions and clarify the roles of physics and/or biology.”

Nicola Menzies-Gow of the RVC added: “We believe that this novel approach has the potential to provide alternative directions to follow with respect to understanding chronic hoof pathologies.”

Using live underweight and obese subjects, researchers assessed the influence of body weight on the balances of stresses affecting hoof growth. Their findings suggest that being proportionally heavier may promote straighter hoof growth, while being too lean may precipitate poor hoof growth and the development of a hoof with a dorsal curved shape.

The study also suggests that a high concentration of insulin stimulated equine progenitor keratinocytes - the outer layer of cells on the hoof wall - to grow in culture. Researchers said that if this also happens chronically within the live animal, it is possible that it could affect the growth stresses within the hoof and therefore promote a dorsal curved hoof shape.

“These results taken together can explain how the hoof grows and how it is possible for it to develop a dorsal curvature,” said Nicola. “However, it should be acknowledged that this does not take into account the genetic or metabolic influences on hoof growth nor the role of hoof trimming and shoeing in maintaining a mechanically healthy hoof. It is appreciated that the underlying biology of hoof growth remains an essential factor for hoof pathologies.”

Dr Rauch continued: “Given that the hoof is a weight bearing element it is essential to untangle the biology from the physics in this system; only then can meaningful biological and/or physical causes be prescribed for particular hoof shape. Removing the cause(s) when physically or biologically possible is essential to resolve hoof conditions.” 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.