Keywords

EDM, Equine neurodegenerative disease, neurodegenerative disease, enviornment

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine potential associations between environmental factors and the progression of Equine Degenerative Myeloencephalopathy (EDM). While environmental contributions to neurodegenerative diseases are increasingly recognized in human patients, little is known about their role in EDM. A comprehensive literature review highlighted the lack of research in this area. Data for this study were collected by Dr. Amy Johnson at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. The two main areas studied were a horse’s lifestyle (specifically turnout conditions) and their geographical proximity to chemicals (pesticides, airborne neurotoxins, and water contaminants). Statistical analysis revealed there was no correlation between a horse’s location and the risk of EDM developing; however, a correlation was found between the amount of time a horse is exposed to sunlight during turnout. Overall, we found that horses that develop EDM are more likely to be turned out overnight and have less sunlight exposure than control horses. This study serves as a jumping-off point for further research into the impact of sunlight on horses’ central nervous system and the development of EDM.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair

Flores, Jacqueline

College

College of Medicine

Department

Molecular and Cellular Biology

Thesis Discipline

Veterinary Medicine

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

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