OxiDx Test Detects Muscle Damage in 85% of Thoroughbreds Post-Race
Proteomics International’s subsidiary OxiDx has unveiled a pioneering test that detects muscle damage in thoroughbred racehorses, promising to transform recovery management in the racing industry. The test’s commercial launch is slated for the second half of 2025.
- OxiDx test detects oxidative stress linked to muscle damage in thoroughbred racehorses
- Study shows oxidative stress peaks 48 hours post-race and varies individually
- Non-invasive dried blood spot method offers a cost-effective alternative to imaging
- Commercial launch planned in Australia in H2 2025, with US expansion targeted
- Clinical utility study underway to further validate predictive capabilities
A New Diagnostic Frontier in Equine Sports Medicine
Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (ASX, PIQ) has announced a significant breakthrough in veterinary diagnostics with its subsidiary OxiDx Pty Ltd. In collaboration with The University of Western Australia, the company has published peer-reviewed results demonstrating the ability of the OxiDx test to detect and monitor exercise-induced muscle damage in Australian thoroughbred racehorses. This innovation addresses a long-standing challenge in the racing industry, objectively identifying muscle injuries that often go unnoticed until they severely impact performance or cause major injury.
Understanding Muscle Damage Through Oxidative Stress
The OxiDx test measures oxidative stress biomarkers, specifically thiol-oxidised albumin, using a simple dried blood spot collected from the horse. The study involving 34 thoroughbreds revealed that oxidative stress levels peak approximately 48 hours after a race and can remain elevated for up to five days, with some horses exhibiting prolonged recovery beyond seven days. This variability underscores the importance of personalised monitoring to prevent premature return to training or competition, which can exacerbate injuries.
Advantages Over Traditional Diagnostic Methods
Current methods for detecting muscle damage in racehorses, such as MRI, CT scans, ultrasound, and enzyme tests, are either costly, time-consuming, or lack precision. The OxiDx test’s patented technology offers a non-invasive, rapid, and cost-effective alternative that can be easily administered in the field. This innovation not only promises to improve equine health outcomes but also provides trainers with actionable data to tailor training regimens and optimise performance.
Commercialisation and Future Prospects
With the successful publication of these results in the journal Veterinary Medicine and Science, Proteomics International is advancing towards commercialisation. The company plans to launch the OxiDx test in Australia in the second half of 2025, followed by expansion into the US market through its reference laboratory. A clinical utility study is currently underway to further validate the test’s predictive power, which will be critical for broader adoption in the competitive racing industry.
Implications for the Racing Industry
Muscle injuries affect up to 85% of thoroughbreds during their early racing careers, often due to undetected damage. By providing a sensitive and objective biomarker for muscle recovery, the OxiDx test could reduce injury rates, extend racing careers, and improve animal welfare. This development aligns with growing demands for precision diagnostics in veterinary medicine and highlights Proteomics International’s role at the forefront of proteomics-based innovation.
Bottom Line?
As Proteomics International prepares for commercial rollout, the racing industry may soon gain a powerful tool to safeguard equine health and enhance performance.
Questions in the middle?
- How will trainers integrate OxiDx testing into existing training and veterinary protocols?
- What will be the cost and accessibility of the OxiDx test for smaller racing operations?
- Can the OxiDx test’s predictive accuracy be confirmed across larger and more diverse equine populations?