Essential part of the intercellular cement?

• A. Biotin
• B. Zinc, copper
• C. Intercellular cement
• D. Laminitis

Answer: (A)

The essential part of the intercellular cement in hoof tissue is the lipid-rich layer that binds keratinocytes together. Biotin is a key cofactor for enzymes that drive fatty acid synthesis and overall lipid metabolism, which are needed to produce those intercellular lipids. When biotin is adequate, the lipid cement between horn cells is robust, helping the horn stay coherent and less prone to cracks. If biotin is deficient, lipid production falters, weakening the intercellular cement and leading to brittle, cracked horn and poor hoof quality. Zinc and copper support other aspects of keratinization and crosslinking but do not form the lipid intercellular cement itself, and laminitis is a separate disease process rather than a component of the cement.