The social brain: emergence of social competences and their neurobiological basis in domestic horses

Project Information

EQUISOBRAIN

Grant agreement ID: 101033271

DOI

10.3030/101033271

Project closed

EC signature date 6 May 2021

Start date 1 October 2021

End date 31 December 2023

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 196 707,84

EU contribution

€ 196 707,84

Coordinated by

INSTITUT NATIONAL DE RECHERCHE POUR L'AGRICULTURE, L'ALIMENTATION ET L'ENVIRONNEMENT
France

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - EQUISOBRAIN (The social brain: emergence of social competences and their neurobiological basis in domestic horses)

Reporting period: 2021-10-01 to 2023-09-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Within the EQUISOBRAIN project, we conducted a comprehensive study to understand the impact of social disruption during early development on social competences and brain development in young domestic horses.
The overall objectives of the project were: 1/to investigate the influence of disruption during the socialization phase on the development of social competences and related neural substrates in domestic horses, and 2/ to explore the broader implications of prolonged maternal presence on animal welfare and development. The project utilized a holistic longitudinal approach, combining behavioural and experimental assessments with non-invasive neuroimaging techniques (MRI, rs-fMRI, and diffusion MRI).
The findings provided significant insights into the importance of early socialization for optimal development and welfare in domestic horses. We demonstrated that a maternal presence plays a crucial role in the neuroanatomical, microstructural, and basal activity development of critical brain regions, as well as in shaping behavioural and physiological trajectories in young horses. Moreover, the project pioneered the use of innovative neuroimaging techniques in large-bodied animals such as the horse, laying the groundwork for future research in neurobiological development.
From a societal perspective, the project provides valuable insights into animal welfare by examining the impact of social disruptions on domestic species under human care. Through our research, we inform practices related to animal management and highlight the importance of early socialization for optimal welfare and development.
Overall, the project has not only achieved its scientific objectives but has also made significant contributions to advancing knowledge in the field of animal welfare and neurobiological development, with potential implications for policy-making and agricultural practices in Europe and beyond.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

Within the EQUISOBRAIN project, we have made considerable progress in understanding the impact of social disruptions on the development of behavioural competences and brain neuroanatomy and function in young non-human animals. To achieve this, we implemented a comprehensive approach combining behavioural observations, experimental assessments, physiological measurements, and innovative neuroimaging techniques using the equine model.
The primary objective was to investigate the consequences of a social disruption, here a maternal separation during mid-childhood, on the emergence of social competences and their neurobiological basis in domestic horses. Through a longitudinal study involving a cohort of 24 young horses, we monitored their behavioural, physiological, and neurobiological development over a period of 7 months.
A key finding from the project is the extent of the positive impact of maternal presence. The study demonstrated the critical role of maternal presence in shaping neuroanatomical, microstructural, and basal activity development in specific brain regions, notably anterior and posterior cortical areas and the hypothalamus. Additionally, horses benefiting from prolonged maternal presence exhibited more positive and adaptive social behaviour, improved feeding behaviour, and enhanced physical development compared to those separated from their mothers on a long-term basis.
Another notable achievement within this project is the development and implementation of an innovative neuroimaging approach with this type of large-bodied animal model. The project pioneered the use of comprehensive MRI-based whole-brain exploration in domestic horses, providing valuable insights into equine neurobiology. This included the development of the "Turone Equine Brain Template & Atlas Toolkit for MRI data analysis and visualization," a notable resource for in-vivo MRI analyses in horses.
Finally, despite the fundamental nature of our project, it has contributed to animal welfare questions. By shedding light on the impacts of social disruptions on young animal welfare and development, the research findings contribute to improving animal management practices and enhancing human-animal interactions.
Exploitation and dissemination of the results have been ongoing throughout the project period. Efforts have included presenting findings at scientific conferences, participating in industry events, delivering seminars, engaging with stakeholders, and disseminating results through various channels such as podcasts and educational institutions. While the primary manuscript is currently undergoing finalization, datasets, analyses, and MRI images are being be deposited online for free access.
Overall, the project has significantly advanced knowledge in equine welfare and neurobiological development, with potential implications for policy-making, agricultural practices, and animal welfare initiatives

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The EQUISOBRAIN project has made substantial progress beyond the state of the art in understanding the impact of social disruptions on the development of social competences and brain neuroanatomy in young domestic horses. By employing a comprehensive approach that integrates behavioural observations, experimental assessments, physiological measurements, and innovative neuroimaging techniques, we have pushed the boundaries of knowledge in equine behavioural, physical and neurobiological development.
One key aspect where our project surpasses existing research is in the depth of our investigation into the neurobiological basis of early development in domestic horses. By employing advanced neuroimaging techniques such as MRI, rs-fMRI, and diffusion MRI, we have conducted pioneering research to map the neural substrates impacted by the presence or absence of maternal care. For instance, our development of the template and atlas toolkit for MRI data analysis and visualization represents a significant innovation in equine neurobiology, providing a valuable resource for future research in this field and potentially for clinical applications.
Furthermore, our longitudinal study design, which monitors the behavioural, physiological, and neurobiological development of young horses over a period of 7 months, is unprecedented in its scope and detail. This approach allows us to gain insights into the long-term effects of social disruptions, particularly maternal separation during mid-childhood, on the emerging social competences and overall welfare of domestic horses.

The socio-economic impact of the project extends beyond academia, with potential implications for various stakeholders including horse owners, veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, policymakers, and the broader public. By improving our understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying behavioural development in domestic horses, our research can inform policies and practices aimed at promoting sustainable and ethical animal management in agricultural settings. This, in turn, enhances the welfare, performance, and quality of life for these animals. Moreover, by advocating for responsible care and ethical treatment of animals, our research contributes to broader societal goals related to animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and human-animal relationships. These efforts are particularly significant in light of the ongoing agroecological transition, which seeks to address global changes and foster harmonious relationships between humans and animals.

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