Effect of long-term castration on serum biochemistry in rhesus monkeys

Background Testicular failure has an effect on normal physiology. To address this issue, an experimental non-human primate model of long-term castrated rhesus monkey was chosen for this study to evaluate the influence of castration on various biochemical parameters. Methods Nine castrated rhesus monkeys were evaluated for changes in body weight, serum testosterone, and serum biochemical parameters as compared to those in non-castrated macaques. Results Castration caused statistically significant changes in body weight, biochemical analytes, and testosterone levels. Body weight and testosterone levels were decreased, and there were increase in alanine aminotransferase, cholesterol, serum bilirubin, phosphorous, alkaline phosphatase, urea and a decrease in serum protein, uric acid, creatinine, and triglycerides. Conclusions This study provided essential baseline information on biochemical variables due to the effect of castration associated with declining levels of testosterone, as data are not readily accessible from the existing body of scientific literature on non-human primates.