Endocrine changes induced by venipuncture in rhesus monkeys.

Area of Science:

• Primate endocrinology
• Animal physiology
• Biomedical research tools

Background:

• Accurate hormone measurement is crucial for understanding primate physiology.
• Stress from capture and handling can significantly alter hormone levels, complicating baseline assessments.
• Existing methods often require invasive procedures that induce physiological changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an animal-worn, remotely activated blood collection device for measuring baseline hormone levels in rhesus monkeys.
• To compare hormone levels obtained via remote collection with those from traditional venipuncture.
• To assess the impact of venipuncture stress on testosterone (T), growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), and cortisol.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an animal-worn device for remote, automated blood collection in unrestrained male rhesus monkeys.
• Obtained baseline hormone samples using the remote device.
• Collected a final blood sample via manual venipuncture shortly after baseline collection.
• Analyzed samples for T, GH, PRL, and cortisol levels.

Main Results:

• The remote device provided baseline estimates for T, GH, and PRL in active, unrestrained monkeys.
• Venipuncture significantly elevated GH levels compared to remote collection.
• Cortisol levels also increased following venipuncture.
• Testosterone and prolactin levels were not significantly affected by venipuncture.

Conclusions:

• The remotely activated blood collection device offers a less invasive method for obtaining baseline endocrine data in primates.
• Traditional venipuncture induces a stress response, particularly affecting GH and cortisol levels.
• This technology minimizes capture-related stress, enabling more accurate physiological baseline assessments.