The advanced glycation end (AGE) product pentosidine (Ps) has been successfully used to estimate ages in a number of bird species as it accumulates as a cross-link in collagen over time. However, variability in concentration resulting from factors other than the aging process can significantly impact the uncertainty of an age estimate for a given individual. We have developed an analytical method to measure both Ps and argpyrimidine (Arg) in skin samples collected from Double-crested cormorants (<i>Phalacrocorax auritus</i>) using HPLC with fluorescence detection to improve the age estimates in this species. Application of this method has allowed us to correct age estimates of individuals based on Ps tissue concentrations. Argpyrimidine concentrations that are statistical outliers identified using a Principal Components Analysis characterize samples with Ps concentrations that are not attributable solely to aging processes. The details of the analytical method are presented along with the statistical approach developed to correct Ps based age estimates.

Cormorant AGE’s: When old isn’t based on pentosidine concentrations in tissues

254th National Meeting (2017)

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