The death of a top racehorse in the Kentucky Derby is something researchers at Colorado State University (CSU) hope to help prevent in the future, according to an Associated Press article at examiner.com.

Eight Belles, a filly, fractured both front ankles after placing second at the race last weekend. Veterinarians euthanized her at the track, prompting a nationwide discussion about the risks the animals face from aggressive training and breeding.

At CSU’s Equine Orthopedic Research Center, one veterinarian is a pioneer in bone and joint surgery that is saving race horses. Another has tissue samples from 150 different horses, hoping to find an answer to the common injury that Eight Belles suffered May 3.

“The fetlock joint is much like the human finger. We feel it is the weakest part of the racing thoroughbred,” said Dr. Chris Kowcak, who studies fractured fetlocks at CSU. One finding suggests blood tests could help identify horses likely to fracture