An efficient procedure for extraction and determination of steroids in the tissue of laboratory animals

Summary A high-performance liquid chromatographic method for analysis of steroids in the tissue of laboratory animals is described. A two-stage solid extraction procedure, utilizing Sep-pak C₁₈ and graphitized carbon black, gives a purified product. Steroids in this extract were separated by multistep gradient elution with a reversedphase liquid chromatography system, using acetonitrilewater as solvent. Several columns with different geometry and phase loading were investigated. Optimum resolution was obtained with a medium covered and spherical particle.The applicability of this method was successfully demonstrated in the analysis of the testis and adrenal gland of rat.Dedicated to Prof. Dr. A. Liberti on the occasion of his 70th birthday.