Equine models in translational medicine: A comparative approach to human health

The horse is a distinctive translational model for bridging mechanistic discovery and clinically relevant investigation because of its physiological complexity, long lifespan, athletic phenotype, and broad spectrum of naturally occurring conditions that parallel aspects of human health and disease. Its utility extends from musculoskeletal and joint research to immunology, metabolic disorders, and exercise physiology, particularly where naturally developed disease, clinically applicable imaging, and longitudinal sampling are required. Additionally, it offers opportunities to examine both chronic and acute pathological processes in a setting that closely approximates clinical reality. Advances in molecular profiling, imaging technologies, and biomarker discovery have expanded the scope of equine-based studies, enabled refined mechanistic insights, and facilitated translational strategies. The integration of equine research into comparative medicine frameworks holds promise for accelerating therapeutic innovation within comparative and One-Health, improving health outcomes across species.