Development of in vitro models to provide better understanding of the mechanisms of the major syndromes (infectious, allergic and/or toxicological) that are important for the equine sector:

• Pathogenicity,
• Physiopathology,
• Emerging diseases.

The frequency of races and competitions has grown considerably over the last few years and these events take place on an increasingly international scale, which means that more and more international transport occurs. In this context, LABÉO carries out “Purchase visit” analyses including detecting residues of medicinal products in blood samples.

LABÉO provides a detection services for a number of genetic markers in horses in order to identify animals with diseases and to detect asymptomatic carriers for future breeding purposes.

A variety of strategies are used to meet the requirements of the sector:

• Diagnostic: molecular and cellular biomarkers, optimisation of procedures, new immunology methods, virology, bacteriology and parasitology,
• Preventative: management of risk factors, vaccination optimisation,
• Therapeutic: screening involving rational use of breakthrough antimicrobial techniques  (antiviral screening, new biocidal molecules etc.).

LABÉO analyses and doses the main prohibited natural nutritional substances in fodder or dietary supplements for horses, as well as mycotoxins in hay and fodder.

Autopsies are recognised as one of the most effective tools for controlling the spread of diseases (fatal ones or ones that require horses to be euthanised) and detecting the emergence of new disorders in equines.