The Core Lab staff has extensive experience with the technique of quantitative histomorphometry of bone, which has been utilized in numerous clinical research projects and studies in experimental animals. The laboratory staff also has considerable experience with assays to measure a variety of regulators of bone and mineral metabolism including as parathyroid hormone, vitamin D metabolites, osteocalcin, IGF-I and growth hormone.

     The sample processing facility is located adjacent to the nurse's station and contains a centrifuge, refrigerator, and a -70 C freezer. The refrigerator and freezer may be used only for temporary storage of samples.

     Samples can be separated and aliquotted, provided explicit written instructions are received and a lab staff or the nurses are available. Investigators need to indicate whether they need access to this facility, who will process the specimens - our nurses or the investigator's associates, frequency of use, time(s) of the day, number of samples, etc.