The effect of exercise on concentration of some serum biochemical parameters in Arabian horses

Evaluation of parameters like serum biochemical changes following intense physical activity can provide data which may help in predicting the athletic capacity of horses in racing conditions. In the present study, serum concentration of some biochemical factors was determined before and after intense physical activity in nine, 4-10 years old Arabian horses. The blood samples were collected at 1 h before (T0), just after (T1(, 3 hours (T2) and 24 hours (T3) after running with maximum speed in a 1250-meter course. Measurement of serum values of total protein, albumin, BUN, creatinine and glucose and also serum activity of creatine phosphokinase and lactate dehydrogenase enzymes were done by routine laboratory methods. Data were analyzed statistically with one-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey's test. The results showed that all of the measured parameters, except BUN were significantly increased after running. It seems that hemoconcentration caused by severe sweating and stress induced by racing conditions, are the reasons for these changes.