Prolactin reference range and pulsatility in male dogs.
Little is known about serum prolactin (PRL) concentrations and secretion patterns in male dogs. Blood samples (n = 65) were collected from crossbred dogs and from Beagles and German Shepherd dogs to describe the PRL reference range, and from five male Beagles at 15-min intervals for 6 h (n = 24 samples/dog) to describe the ultradian rhythm of this hormone. Serum PRL was measured by a homologous endpoint enzyme immunometric assay. The reference range was established from nondetectable to 6.0 ng/mL. There was an effect of breed; serum PRL concentrations in Beagles were higher (P < 0.05) than in crossbreeds and German Shepherds. However, there was no significant correlation between PRL concentration and age of the dog. During the ultradian study, PRL was characterized by a fluctuating baseline with occasional distinct elevations, indicating a pulsatile secretion. The mean basal PRL concentration was 1.4 +/- 0.6 ng/mL and the mean AUC was 9.9 +/- 2.7 ng/mL/6h. Prolactin pulse frequency ranged from one to two peaks/6h, pulse duration between 15 and 75 min, and amplitude from 1.7 to 2.4 ng/mL. In conclusion, this reference range, pulsatility and breed differences should be taken into account when interpreting serum PRL concentrations, for clinical or research purposes.
Imaging Diagnostic Service, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, National University of La Plata, La Plata 1900, Argentina.
Yanina
Y
Corrada
Isabel
I
Rimoldi
Susana
S
Arreseigor
Gonzalo
G
Marecco
Cristina
C
Gobello
D000818:Animals; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology*; D004285:Dogs / Q000097:blood / Q000502:physiology*; D006824:Hybridization, Genetic; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques / Q000662:veterinary; D008297:Male; D011388:Prolactin / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism; D012016:Reference Values
D011388:Prolactin