Effect of endotoxins on the inflammation response in two different in vitro claw/hoof models

Introduction
Endotoxins are discussed to play an important role during the pathogenesis of laminitis. They are parts of
the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, and are also known as lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Different
studies have discussed the possible influence endotoxins can have on the hoof and claw tissue. In a study by
Bossman et al. (1) the i.v. administration of LPS didn’t lead to clinical signs of laminitis, but to
histopathological changes similar to those occurring during laminitis. Furthermore, it was described that
LPS led to significantly decreased separation force of hoof and claw explants after 24 hours incubation (2).
The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of endotoxins on the expression of inflammation related
genes in two different in vitro claw/hoof models. […]