LSU studies effects of influenza exposure in horses

Baton Rouge, La. - Researchers at Louisiana State University(LSU) are investigating whether horses' exposure to influenza virus wouldreduce the risk of developing recurring airway obstruction (RAO) disease.

Scientists in the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine are studyingthe effects of viral infections on the immune response of neonatal foals.

"It's become pretty obvious that RAO disorders are aresult of allergic reactions," says Dr. David Horohov, principalinvestigator and professor of veterinary immunology. "With this studywe're hoping to provide insight into the consequence of early viralexposure and the tendency of horses to develop allergic immune response intheir lungs."

The first part of the study will focus on the immunologicfunction of the foal's lung during its first year of life. The second partwill determine what effect a viral infection will have on the lung'simmune response.

The study is being funded by the Grayson-Jockey Club ResearchFoundation, Lexington, Ky.