Clegg and Millsonenormous breadth of the review, we have provided general examples and citations for more specific examples covering the major sample types, commonly used biomarkers, and biochemical assays. The goal of the review is to provide a first resource for researchers interested in studying biomarkers to complement behavioural analysis. This article should not be considered a complete guide. We urge readers who are planning to use any of the techniques described here to read more detailed information in the many publications we have cited, because many of our general rules of thumb may not apply to specific implementations.
Choosing the Ideal SampleSelecting the ideal physical sample is incredibly important. Although most assays are available to run either on site or in a laboratory, this may not be the case for all samples. The selection of sample type is dependent on the biomarker(s) to be measured, the types of assays available to measure these biomarkers (see the Types of Biochemical Test section for further information), and the ability/ availability to collect the sample type. Availability will depend on many factors, not least the ability to collect invasive samples, such as blood, and the research project questions/aims (Mormède et al., 2007). It is important to mention that the correct ethical and legal licences must be in place before samples are obtained from animals. In addition, licences may also be needed for working with certain species, such as Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) species, or for transportation of samples across borders or into countries because of biosecurity concerns (Animal Science Procedure Act [ASPA], 1986). As an example, a schematic diagram for selecting the ideal sample for studying stress responses is shown in Figure 1.