The equine immune system helps fight off infection and prevent the horse from becoming sick. However, many horse owners do not understand how it works on a basic level. So, how does the equine immune system function?
The equine immune system, at the core, involves the following cells and organs to function:
- Macrophages- cells that consume and break down harmful bacteria, as well as recycle dead cells and clear the body of debris
- B-lymphocytes- cells that present antigens to T cells to mark cells for destruction and produce antibodies to reduce the likelihood of reinfection
- T-lymphocytes- cells that identify abnormal cells, kill pathogens (disease-causing organisms), and bring in other immune cells to combat disease
These cells work with organs like the spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow to keep the body at a comfortable level of function. Continue below to read more about the equine immune system.
What Are The Key Players in Equine Immunity?
Macrophages eat cells to break them down and recycle already dead cells. B-cells produce antibodies and mark cells for T-cells to destroy by presenting antigens. T-cells actively kill diseased cells and send signals to recruit other crucial immune cells.
Several organs help the equine immune system function. The bone marrow and thymus make and sensitize white blood cells central to preventing infection. The spleen, lymph nodes, and liver trap diseased cells so that those in the immune system can come together and have the appropriate response to kill them.
How Do The Cells of The Equine Immune System Communicate?
Cells can communicate in two major ways: cell-to-cell contact and through signaling molecules that other cells release. Receptor cells on the surface and the ligands that activate them send messages to all the cells that need them. Without this communication, immune cells could not complete tasks.
Other cells called cytokines also assist with communication and have jobs like stimulating new immune cell growth.
What Happens When The Equine Immune System Weakens? 
When a horse’s immune system weakens, it is at higher risk of becoming immunodeficient. Secondary immunodeficiency occurs later in life rather than through a genetic cause. It reduces the natural immunity that the immune system provides, and thus, horses can become sick more often.
Secondary immunodeficiency can be short-lived or chronic, and something as simple as prolonged stress from training and or travel can bring it on.
How Can You Boost Your Horse’s Immunity?
Supplements are a great way to promote improved immune function.
BioPro Armour is the only supplement to promote healthy immune balance and development for your horse. It is chock full of naturally occurring thymic proteins that help combat stress in horses and support proper immune cell development and function which will keep your horse healthy and happy.
The supplement works to aid the equine immune system because the thymic proteins help existing immune cells recognize and kill pathogens more efficiently. The 5 different proteins make it easier to keep any illness at bay and ensure the comfort of your equine partner.
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