Fecal cortisol metabolite analysis for noninvasive monitoring of adrenocortical function in the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus).

摘要: A radioimmunoassay was validated for quantifying excreted cortisol metabolites in cheetah {Acinonyx jubatus) feces. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that immunoreactivity associated with a water-soluble metabolite fecal extracts from males and females. None of the corresponded free or corticosterone but rather more polar, unidentified metabolite. To determine biologic relevance immunoreactive metabolites, cheetahs were exposed to variety situations anticipated increase secretion. First, assess acute changes adrenal activity, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH; 400 IU i.m.) administered two adult Pre-ACTH baseline serum concentrations varied among individuals. Serum elevated above within 10 min ACTH injection, followed by corresponding increases (690-4,194% baseline) 48 hr later three four cheetahs. In fourth cheetah, smaller (334% excretion observed 96 after injection. Seven females also subjected potentially stressful manipulations, including immobilization, translocation, introduction male ability this technique detect physiologic activity. Increased corticoid 24-72 exposure these exogenous Stressors. Results indicate adrenocortical activity can be monitored noninvasively through metabolites. This could valuable evaluating, thus optimizing, environmental man agement conditions investigating role stress disease pathogenesis usually poor reproductive