Raw data to article: Are proteins such as MMP2, IGF1, IL-13, and IL-1ra valuable as fitness markers in racehorses during exercise?

Raw data connected with article entitled "Are proteins such as MMP2, IGF1, IL-13, and IL-1ra valuable as fitness markers in racehorses during exercise?".

Files in this dataset there are 2 files with raw data (.tab) and 2 files (.txt) with descriptions of data, named accordingly. In a recent study, in which more than a thousand racehorses have been evaluated, three potential blood markers have been selected, which may enable early detection of horses at risk of injuries such as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). However, it was suggested that the cytokine concentrations indicate the athlete's status better than mRNA expression in blood cells. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in IGF1, MMP-2, and novel markers as interleukin-13 (IL-13). ELISA tests were performed on thirty-one racehorses [n=31] which were divided into an inexperienced [beginner] group [n=20] and an experienced [advanced] group [n=6]. In addition, differences between race and training session were evaluated. Blood samples were taken before and after exercise. The basal IGF1 concentration was lower in an inexperienced group (p<0.01) as well as IL-13 (p<0.05) in comparison to the experienced group. There were no differences between pre- and post-exercise samples, changes in multiples or between training and racing exercises. In conclusions, basal values of some biomarkers may appear to be more beneficial in forecasting horse performance.