We have developed and validated a variety of noninvasive methods to assess endocrine function in primates and other animals.  Steroids are eliminated from the body via the kidney and the gastrointenstinal tract.  The liver conjugates steroids to make them more soluble and the kidney excretes the conjugated steroids in urine. The remaining steroids enter the gastrointestinal tract where they are excreted in feces. 

Steroid concentrations in urine and feces have been shown to parallel serum concentrations, making it possible to assess a variety of endocrine functions by measuring steroid concentrations in urine or fecal samples. An advantage of these samples is that they can be collected daily without trapping or otherwise disturbing the behavior of free-ranging and captive animals. 

Steroids are extracted from the samples using a solid phase method and assayed by highly specific radioimmunoassays. Plant samples are assayed for phytoestrogen content using high performance liquid chromatography.

Ovarian Steroids

Assessment of ovary cycles and pregnancy using fecal estradiol and progesterone.

Androgens

Characterization of testicular function and aggressive competition behavior using fecal testosterone. Examination of patterns of development and aging using DHEAS.

Stress Hormones

Measurement of stress responses and chronic stress using fecal cortisol and corticosterone.

Phytoestrogens

Measurement of food and urinary isoflavonoid concentrations using high performance liquid chromatography.

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