The Department of Morphology at Ghent University, led by Prof. Dr. Ward De Spiegelaere, has published new findings that shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying exuberant granulation tissue (EGT) in horses.

Their study examined the collagen composition of naturally occurring EGT and found a marked increase in immature collagen (type III) compared to control wounds—despite similar total collagen levels. The team also observed widespread myofibroblast presence, occluded microvessels, and endothelial hypertrophy, all pointing toward impaired tissue maturation.

🔬 Key insights:

· Significantly higher levels of immature collagen in both superficial and deep wound regions of EGT.

· Ubiquitous myofibroblasts throughout the wound bed.

· Vascular abnormalities indicating compromised healing dynamics.

· Overall, the collagen profile of EGT highlights tissue immaturity as a critical factor.

🎯 Implications:
These results suggest that stimulating extracellular matrix maturation could be a promising therapeutic strategy to improve healing in horses affected by EGT.

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