OSU veterinarian named "Hero in Medicine"
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
“PPID is a naturally occurring disease of aging horses which results from neurodegeneration
of dopamine-producing neurons,” says McFarlane. “Degeneration of dopamine-producing
neurons also causes Parkinson’s disease in aged people.”
In people, the damaged neurons cause tremors or difficulty moving. In horses, the
injured neurons regulate hormone production resulting in abnormal hair coats, muscle
loss and immune deficiencies.
Even though the clinical signs are different, McFarlane says similar events may start
and fuel the degenerative process in both diseases.
“If we can understand the factors that trigger degeneration of the dopamine-producing
neurons in the horse, it may serve to better understand the events that precede Parkinson’s
disease,” she adds. “Our goal is gain valuable insights to improve quality of life
for both animals and humans.”
Dr. McFarlane is the second member of the OSU veterinary center team to be recognized
for her work by the ACVIM as a “Hero in Medicine.” Michael Davis, DMV, Ph.D., Dipl.
ACVIM-Large Animal, professor in physiological sciences, director of the Comparative
Exercise Physiology Laboratory and Oxley Chair in Equine Sports Medicine, was the
very first “Hero in Medicine” selected by the ACVIM. Dr. Davis was recognized for
his work in helping athletes perform to their optimum ability by studying what strenuous
exercise does to multiple organ systems in horses and dogs.
McFarlane earned a B.S. degree in Animal Science from Clemson University and a M.S.
degree in Molecular Genetics from the University of Georgia. She earned her DVM degree
at the University of California and her Ph.D. in Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology
from the Atlantic Veterinary College.