Corrigendum To “Genetic And Environmental Influences On Pube

Corrigendum to “Genetic and environmental influences on pubertal hormones in human hair across development 

This document is a corrigendum to the original article titled “Genetic and environmental influences on pubertal hormones in human hair across development,” published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology. The correction clarifies an error regarding the units of measurement reported for hair hormones. Specifically, in the original publication, it was stated that the lower limit of detection for hair hormones was 0.1 pg/ml. However, the correct unit is 0.1 pg/mg. The authors express their regret for any confusion or inconvenience caused by this mistake.

Paper For Above instruction

The measurement of pubertal hormones plays a crucial role in understanding developmental biology and endocrine influences during adolescence. Hormonal assessment through hair samples offers a non-invasive, reliable, and integrative measure of hormone levels over time, which is advantageous compared to serum or saliva sampling. As research advances in this area, the precision of measurement units and detection thresholds becomes paramount for data interpretation and replication.

The original article by Grotzinger et al. (2018) sought to explore the genetic and environmental factors affecting pubertal hormones in human hair. These hormones, including testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and cortisol, are indicators of pubertal development and stress, which are influenced by complex biological and environmental interactions. The study implemented hair hormone assays to quantify these levels across developmental stages, providing insights into physiological and psychosocial correlates of puberty.

The corrigendum addresses an important methodological detail—the lower limit of detection (LOD)—which affects the interpretation of hormonal data. Initially, it was reported that the LOD was 0.1 pg/ml. However, the accurate measurement unit is 0.1 pg/mg. This correction is essential because specifying the correct units ensures clarity for researchers attempting to replicate or compare findings across studies. The difference between pg/ml and pg/mg, although seemingly subtle, has substantial implications for the calibration of assays, the reported concentrations, and the biological interpretations made from the data.

Understanding the significance of measurement units is fundamental in endocrinology research. Hair hormone analysis relies on sensitive detection methods such as liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Variations in units reflect different biological matrices and extraction procedures. For instance, pg/mg measurement relates to hormone concentration per milligram of hair, thus offering an integrated measure over extended periods, potentially spanning several months, capturing long-term hormonal activity. Conversely, pg/ml typically applies to fluids like blood or saliva, representing a snapshot of circulating hormones at a particular time.

The correction issued by Grotzinger et al. (2018) aligns with best practices for scientific transparency and accuracy. It underscores the importance of precise reporting standards, especially in quantitative research where measurement thresholds influence data quality and validity. Precise detection limits are vital for understanding the sensitivity of assays, interpreting low hormone levels, and establishing thresholds for clinical or developmental significance.

Moreover, this corrigendum highlights the ongoing challenges faced in endocrinological measurements and the importance of rigorous methodological reporting. Accurate units help clarify that hair hormone concentrations are evaluated in the context of their accumulation over time, differing from circulating measures. Such distinctions are critical for advancing our understanding of hormonal influences on pubertal development, stress, and related health outcomes.

Research on pubertal hormones in hair has been transformative, enabling longitudinal and retrospective analyses. Studies utilizing hair hormone levels have demonstrated associations with environmental stressors, sleep patterns, socioeconomic status, and psychological health (D’Anna-Hernandez et al., 2018; Trifunovic et al., 2020). The reliability of such research depends heavily on consistent and precise measurement protocols, including clarity about detection limits and units.

In conclusion, the correction made by Grotzinger et al. (2018) emphasizes the critical nature of methodological accuracy in endocrinology research. Clear specification of measurement units ensures that findings are interpreted correctly and that future research maintains high standards of reproducibility. As measurement techniques continue to evolve, rigorous reporting will support robust scientific progress in understanding hormonal development during adolescence.

References

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• Grotzinger, A. D., Briley, D. A., Engelhardt, L. E., Manna, F. D., Patterson, M. W., Tackettd, J. L., Tucker-Droba, E. M., & Harden, K. P. (2018). Corrigendum to “Genetic and environmental influences on pubertal hormones in human hair across development”. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 98, 88-89.
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