How do you treat gastric discomfort in horses?

Polysaccharides have established themselves as protectants by their ability to confer defense to gastrointestinal mucosal tissues. Levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) increase in polysaccharide-treated gastric tissues indicating that polysaccharides can help relieve gastric discomfort with the production of these growth factors.²

Relyne GI contains a highly researched schizophyllan beta-glucan TBG-136. A double blind study performed by Louisiana State University showed that RelyneGI significantly improved stomach health.⁶

Schizophyllan beta-glucan has been found to have wound healing properties. It works by activating the immune system through binding to certain receptors on macrophages, which are white blood cells. This activation triggers a series of reactions that enhance the immune response, including the clearance of debris and defense against infections at the site of the wound. The activated macrophages release signaling molecules called cytokines, which attract other immune cells to the wound area to promote healing. Schizophyllan also stimulates cell growth and tissue regeneration by promoting the growth and migration of fibroblasts to the wound area. Fibroblasts are cells that play a crucial role in producing collagen, which forms the structural basis of new skin tissue. Due to its unique molecular structure, schizophyllan is believed to have a particularly strong effect on cell regeneration compared to other beta-glucans.³

Several studies have suggested that Schizophyllan Beta Glucan can provide benefits to the gut. The structure of Schizophyllan makes it a preferred food source for beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, giving them a competitive advantage.

As the beneficial bacteria ferment Schizophyllan, they multiply and increase in numbers in the gut microbiome. This ultimately leads to a healthier balance of bacteria in the gut⁴.

Hyaluronan is a natural high molecular weight polysaccharide, found throughout the body of all mammals. Its function includes cell signaling, skin healing, moisture retention, lubricating connective tissue and absorbing shock in joints. In the intestine, hyaluronan is vital in fluid exchange to and from the blood. In addition to functioning in normal gastric and intestinal tissue homeostasis, hyaluronan plays a role in the intestinal innate immune response. Dysregulation of the production and/or breakdown of hyaluronan may promote intestinal inflammation and disease.⁵

1. Murray MJ, Grodinsky C, Anderson CW, et al. Gastric ulcers in horses: a comparison of endoscopic findings in horses with and without clinical signs. Equine Vet J Suppl 1989;21(Suppl 7):68–72.
2. de la Motte, CA and SP Kessler. The role of hyaluronan in innate defense responses of the intestine. Intl J Cell Bio, 2015, 481301.
3. Seo Gayoung, et al, The wound healing effect of four types of beta-glucan. Appl Bio Chem (2019) 62:20
4. Singh et al. Synbiotic supplementation with prebiotic Schizophyllum commune derived β-(1,3/1,6)-glucan and probiotic concoction benefits gut microbiota and its associated metabolic activities Appl Biol Chem (2021) 64:7
5. Al-Bayaty, F, et al. Evaluation of hyaluronate anti-ulcer activity against gastric mucosal injury. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 5(1):23-30 2011. :
6. Andrews F, Mordoh S, Keowen M, Garza F. Effects of Relyne GI with Beta Glucan (TBG-136TM) on stomach health. Louisiana State University.