Review Article: The role of tumour necrosis factor in the pathogenesis of equine colic

Abstract

Summary A large body of evidence in experimental animals, people and now horses supports the hypothesis that tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is an important proximal mediator of endotoxaemia. Because morbidity and mortality of colic in horses are associated with the escape of lipopolysaccharide into the peripheral blood, TNF may be the trigger to the complex cascade of events that is ultimately deleterious to the host. Clinical trials of inhibiting TNF with monoclonal antibodies in human septic shock patients are being undertaken. A similar approach to treating colic in horses is warranted.