Publication Abstract

MICROMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF CELLS FROM HYPERELASTOSIS CUTIS (HC) AFFECTED AND CARRIER HORSES

Williams, K., & Williams, L. N. (2011). MICROMECHANICAL ANALYSIS OF CELLS FROM HYPERELASTOSIS CUTIS (HC) AFFECTED AND CARRIER HORSES. Mississippi State University: MSU Library.

Abstract

Equine hyperelastosis cutis, also known as HERDA is a connective tissue disorder in American Quarter Horses resulting in hyperelastic, fragile skin with poor wound healing. Similar connective tissue conditions are found in many species and all forms of the disease display decreased skin tensile strength. Fibroblasts produce collagen and elastin fibers forming vast and tough networks providing the dermis with strength, tension, and elasticity. This study aims to carry out a 3-part study between horse skin fibroblast (cells from horses affected with HERDA, cells from carrier horses that are carriers of HERDA (recessive HERDA gene), and cells from horses that are normal (neither affected or carriers of HERDA); Studies include the following: 1. Cell proliferation assay 2. Apoptosis analysis of fibroblasts 3. Mechanobiology of stretched fibroblast. Studies have shown cellular deformation to have an overall effect on mechanical properties of tissues. Therefore, this investigation provides a micromechanical understanding of HC/HERDA. Key words: Hyperelastosis cutis (HC)/ Hereditary Equine Dermal Asthenia (HERDA), Fibroblast, Cell proliferation, Mechanical stretching of cells, Apoptosis (Cell death)