Biomarkers Assay Group

Individual assay service laboratories from the National Primate Research Centers have formed a Biomarkers Working Group to provide national resources for analysis of steroid, protein, peptide hormones, neurotransmitters, metabolic markers, and other biomarkers in primates, both nonhuman and human, for NIH funded research. The laboratories offer a wide array of methods of analyses in most bio-matrixes, consultation in sample preparation, and interpretation of results. These laboratories will be working together to ensure consistency across the laboratories, with standardized testing of common analytes to meet the rigorous quality controls required for NIH research. These laboratories also specialize in the development of new methods at the request of investigators.

Biomarker Analysis Resources

Analytes
The NPRC biomarker analyses laboratories analyze nonhuman primate (NHP) and human samples in biomatrices for reproductive hormones, metabolic hormones, neurotransmitters and peptides, cytokines and vitamins. Several of the labs offer developmental work for new analytes by NIH funded investigators.

Panels
The laboratories offer several panels of analytes allowing for multiple compounds to be quantified in a single sample. Panels currently developed include multisteroid analyses, vitamin D metabolite panel, catecholamines (biogenic amines), inflammatory cytokines, and neurodegenerative disease panel. Custom panels may be requested.

Technologies
Several platforms/technologies are available among the NPRC laboratories encompassing traditional to state-of-the-art methodologies. These include radiommunoassays (RIA) working with both alpha and beta particles, enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assays (ELISA), chromatography separations, automated clinical platforms, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) linked with UV or electrochemical detection, and tandem tiple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS).

Expertise
The laboratories offer consultation in experimental design and collection/preparation of samples, development of new analyses in both individual analytes or multianalyte panels, evaluation of reproductive status, and other specialized methodology.

Publications
See the latest publications by members of the Biomarkers Working Group.