Tools & Resources

Methodologic Studies

Reproducibility and Validity of Hormone Assays

The branch has been involved in an effort to develop approaches to ensure high quality of biochemical probes in large-scale epidemiologic studies, particularly in the area of hormonal carcinogenesis. An extensive methodologic study designed to assess laboratory reproducibility and validity of a large number of hormone assays has demonstrated that current laboratory assays for most circulating estrogens and some but not all androgens are adequate for large research efforts provided quality control procedures are carefully implemented and monitored. Current assays for urinary estrogens and the 2- and 16 -hydroxyestrone metabolites are also reliable, even in postmenopausal women, where serum estrogen concentrations may be at or below assay sensitivity. For More Information Contact: Roni Falk