College of Agriculture
Veterinary Science	Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome Index Page
Keeneland Session

Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome

Opening Statement
Information Sharing Session
Keeneland Sale Pavilion
May 24, 2001

Dr. M. Scott Smith
Dean and Director
University of Kentucky College of Agriculture

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The following is a statement prepared jointly by the College of Agriculture investigative team.

We are able to report significant recent progress in accounting for Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome and possibly related equine health problems.  Some of the results you will hear have become available only within the last 24 hours.

Observations to date implicate cyanide or cyanogenic compounds as the causal agent of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome. Wild black cherry trees are the likely source of these toxins. Limited recent observations imply that Eastern Tent Caterpillar may be directly or indirectly involved in the delivery of cyanogenic compounds to horses.  Other working hypotheses, which we continue to investigate, are not confirmed by, or are inconsistent with, recent observations and analyses.

We want to emphasize that the current observations are preliminary, must be confirmed, and that further validation is absolutely essential. We have not yet met reasonable standards of scientific proof of the working hypothesis. A great deal of work remains to be done.

We also wish to point out that, if confirmed, this working hypothesis would lead to a very positive outlook for prediction and prevention of recurrence of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome.

More than 100 faculty scientists and staff in the College of Agriculture; along with countless veterinarians, farm operators, leaders of the equine industry and other government and private agencies have directed enormous effort and a remarkable pool of talent to the investigation of this tragic problem. In my experience, the cooperative scientific and technical progress, made under the most urgent conditions, in essentially a 3 week period, is unprecedented anywhere. This effort has been a model of communication and cooperation, and will continue to be.  I want to express our deepest gratitude to all of those who have worked with us and assisted in so many crucial ways.

Members of the panel will now present more specific information, to be followed by an opportunity for questions.