Endocrine Diagnostic Services
The Endocrinology Lab provides diagnostic services to zoos, universities and conservation organizations at minimal cost. Hormone assessments can diagnose pregnancies, evaluate female reproductive cycles, and monitor levels of stress hormones in numerous species. The Lab also maintains close collaboration with the AZA Reproductive Management Center to determine whether contraception is effectively suppressing reproductive cycles.
Before sending samples, please e-mail Dr. Corinne Kozlowski to confirm assay availability and sampling procedures.
Assays
We currently offer assays for the following hormones:
- Cortisol
- Corticosterone
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Testosterone
- Other assays may be available upon request. Please inquire, and we will try to meet your needs.
Pricing
Price includes analysis of all samples in duplicate and assay of dilutions if required. Radioimmunoassays and enzymeimmunoassays are extensively tested for precision and reproducibility. Species validation includes linearity and recovery studies.
Serum, Plasma or Saliva Assays:
- $16 ($14 discounted rate for batches of 20 or more)
- $150 Species Validation (one-time charge)
Fecal, Urine or Egg Yolk Assays:
- $19 ($17 discounted rate for batches of 20 or more)
- $200 Species Validation (one-time charge)
Sample Collection
Our instructions include information about sample collecting, storage and shipment, as well as a submission form. We strongly advise contacting the Lab before sending any samples, because your specific needs—such as frequency of collection—may vary depending on species and the purpose of the analysis.
Samples should be shipped overnight on dry ice or freezer packs to:
Corinne Kozlowski, Ph.D.
Endocrinologist
Saint Louis Zoo Veterinary Hospital
Gate 5 Wells Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63110
Email: kozlowski@stlzoo.org
Phone: (314) 646-4762
Please only ship Monday through Wednesday to ensure arrival by the weekend, and send samples FedEx priority overnight to ensure the samples are delivered in the morning.