broodmares affected by EMS, there is growing concern about the impact of maternal health on fetal development. Current management practices often involve maintaining higher body condition scores in mares to ensure adequate nutrition for foals, but the long-term implications of this approach are unclear. Research in this area is crucial because maternal insulin dysregulation in humans—such as gestational diabetes—can lead to a higher incidence of complications like premature birth, dystocia, and metabolic diseases. Dr. Norton and her team are exploring whether similar issues occur in horses with EMS, specifically focusing on how maternal EMS may influence placental function and foal health outcomes. “Our preliminary findings suggest that mares with EMS exhibit the same histological changes in the placenta as women with gestational diabetes,” she notes. This parallel opens the door to using horses as a model for understanding and addressing gestational diabetes, which could ultimately lead to improved treatment options for equines and humans. Dr. Norton’s innovative research continues to broaden our understanding of equine metabolic syndrome and its potential implications for the broader One Health initiative. Her work emphasizes the interconnectedness of human and animal health, providing insights that could improve equine welfare and human healthcare in the long term. As we deepen our understanding of gene-environment interactions, the future of precision medicine in equine and human populations looks promising. ■
6 FALL 2025 VETMED.ARIZONA.EDU
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