Chapter 3 The immue system of the older horse Flashcards
(47 cards)
What has led to the increased longevity of horses?
“Improvements in health care and advancements in science and medicine.”
What is the challenge associated with increased horse longevity?
“Increased potential for age-associated diseases.”
What is aging?
“A complex phenomenon where the effectiveness of several physiological systems becomes compromised over time.”
At what chronological age is a horse typically considered old in studies?
“20 years of age.”
How do chronological age and biological age differ?
“Chronological age is the individual’s age in years
What percentage of the equine population in the UK is 15 years or older?
“29%.”
What are the most common clinical conditions in horses 20 years or older?
“Gastrointestinal
What is pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID)?
“A common condition in old horses affecting the pituitary gland
What factors contribute to the decline in immune function with age?
“Immunosenescence and inflamm-aging.”
What is immunosenescence?
“An age-related decline in immune function.”
What is inflamm-aging?
“A chronic
What changes occur in the innate immune system of aged horses?
“Generally remains intact
What changes occur in the adaptive immune system of aged horses?
“Decline in lymphocyte count
What are the implications of thymic involution in aged horses?
“Reduced production and diversity of T cells.”
How does telomere shortening relate to immunosenescence?
“Progressive telomere shortening leads to cell senescence and decreased proliferation potential.”
What are the effects of aging on B cells in horses?
“Potential decrease in function and response to antigens.”
What are the common clinical conditions associated with aging in horses?
“Arthritis
What are the common infectious diseases in aged horses?
“Increased susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections due to immune decline.”
What role does nutrition play in modulating immune function in aged horses?
“Nutritional interventions can help counteract immunosenescence and inflamm-aging.”
What dietary compounds are beneficial for the immune system of aged horses?
“Flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds from blueberries
What was the effect of vitamin E supplementation in aged horses?
“Improved bacteria-killing ability of immune cells and enhanced humoral immune responses.”
What are prebiotics and probiotics?
“Functional foods that modulate the immune system
What was the result of supplementing aged horses with prebiotic yeast?
“Reduced inflammation and enhanced immune response to vaccination.”
What are the main findings regarding inflamm-aging in aged horses?
“Increased levels of inflammatory cytokines like IL-1b
