The quantification of isolated GAG was carried out in terms of hexuronic acid and, frequently, in terms of amino sugars. Four groups of 5 to 15 horses were utilized. A group of horses was exercised on a treadmill, in six different conditioning programs. The other groups of horses were exercised on riding-track or utilized in different show jumping competitions. Blood samples were collected immediately before the exercise, and after the end of the exercise, either immediately after or at different times after.
Physical exercise induces transient increases in circulating GAG levels.
Statistically significant changes were observed after a strenuous exercise. Animal age appears to effect the kinetics of recovery to pre-exercise levels. Results of the present study suggest that the measurement of GAG concentration in plasma and serum may be useful in the characterization and classification to practical purposes of the individual response to physical exercise in horses. The grade of uptake correlates with the degree of pathophysiological remodeling of bone or inflammation of soft tissue. The times for determination are depending on the agent's pharmacokinetic.