Measuring and validating concentrations of steroid hormones in the skin of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)

• DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa032
• Publication Date: 2020-03-20T20:11:07Z
• Authors: Thea Bechshoft; Andrew J Wright; Bjarne Styrishave; Dorian Houser
• Keywords: Bottlenose dolphin

A previously published analytical method demonstrated the quantification of hormone cortisol in cetacean skin. However, little is known about transfer hormones between blood and Recognizing that such information essential to effectively using skin samples within marine mammal stress research, primary goals this study were (i) expand on number steroid proved quantifiable matrix (ii) validate use as a for measuring stress-related hormones. Five adult bottlenose dolphins subjected an out water test. Non-invasive sloughed collected from each dolphin: once ~3 ~1 week prior test; at time twice weekly 11 17 weeks subsequent LCMS/MS analysis recovered consistent data three corticosteroids (cortisol, aldosterone, corticosterone), two androgens (testosterone, DHEA) one progestagen (progesterone). range other also quantifiable, although not consistently so across samples. Results hormonal response acute stressor could be detected skin: test peak was average 46 days, whereas it 55 days corticosterone 47 aldosterone. showed baseline concentrations obtainable during or immediately after animals stressor. This further develops validates non-invasive related stress, health, reproduction cetaceans, potentially supporting investigations chronic endocrine responses distinct (e.g. naval sonar exposure) prolonged stressors shipping noise).