INFLUENCE OF SHORT-TERM EXERCISE ON SERUM LEPTIN CONCENTRATION IN THE HORSE.

Leptin is a protein hormone produced predominantly by adipocytes. The influence of physical exercise on serum leptin levels was not studied in the horse. The aim of our research is to evaluate, in this species, the variations of leptin and glucose concentration during show jumping. Moreover, blood lactate concentration was determined in order to evaluate the intensity of the effort. Eight Sella Italiana horses were used for this study. The test consisted of six jumping trials at different heights (between 100 and 140 cm). Blood samples were collected through jugular venipuncture on the following experimental conditions: at rest, immediately after the trial, 30 min after the trial and 24 h after the trial. Blood lactate concentration was immediately analyzed with a field meter (Accusport Boehringer Mannheim, Monza, Italy). Glucose concentration was determined by the enzymatic colorimetric method GOD-PAP, while serum leptin concentration was quantified by using ELISA kits. From analysis of obtained results, applying repeated measures ANOVA, P value for lactate was P<0.0001, with a F (7.21)= 34.35 and for glucose was P<0.0003, with a F (7.21)= 8.706, while no statistical significance was observed for serum leptin concentration. Obtained results showed that short duration exercise, as show jumping, does not affect serum leptin levels.