Plasma Androgen Levels of the Rhesus Monkey: Effects of Age and Season1

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Testo-sterone and androstenedione assays were made on plasmas from the rhesus monkey using gas-liquid chromatography with electron capture. Various criteria were employed to verify the measurement of these hormones. In the adult male, testosterone was found 8 times more concentrated in spermatic vein than in peripheral plasma (dorsal aorta). The ratio of testosterone to androstenedione in the peripheral circulation was 10/1. In the prepubertal period minute quantities of both testosterone and androstenedione were detected in tes-ticular homogenates, with testosterone predominating. Testosterone was not found in large pools of peripheral plasma (femoral vein) from prepubertal or castrated animals although androstenedione was detectable. At approximately 3 yr. of age testosterone concentrations in the peripheral circulation of the male rhesus monkey approach adult levels. Peripheral blood levels of the hormone in 4 adult monkeys showed no marked seasonal fluctuation over a period of 1 1/2 yr. A significant difference in the concentration in peripheral plasma of individual animals, however, was noted.