Expression of the cyclooxygenase isoforms in the prodromal stage of black walnut-induced laminitis in horses.

Objective: To compare the levels of mRNA expression of cycooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2 in the digital laminae of normal horses and horses in the developmental stages of laminitis experimentally induced by administration of black walnut extract (BWE).

Sample Population: Samples of mRNA extracted from the digital laminae of 5 control horses and 5 horses at the onset of leukopenia after administration of BWE.

Procedure: Specimens of laminae were collected from anesthetized horses prior to euthanasia.