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Reproducibility of histopathological findings in experimental pathology of the mouse: a sorry tail
Jerrold M Ward1, Paul N Schofield2,3, John P Sundberg3
1Global VetPathology, Montgomery Village, Maryland, USA.
Abstract:
Reproducibility of in vivo research using the mouse as a model organism depends on many factors, including experimental design, strain or stock, experimental protocols, and methods of data evaluation. Gross and histopathology are often the endpoints of such research and there is increasing concern about the accuracy and reproducibility of diagnoses in the literature. To reproduce histopathological results, the pathology protocol, including necropsy methods and slide preparation, should be followed by interpretation of the slides by a pathologist familiar with reading mouse slides and familiar with the consensus medical nomenclature used in mouse pathology. Likewise, it is important that pathologists are consulted as reviewers of manuscripts where histopathology is a key part of the investigation. The absence of pathology expertise in planning, executing and reviewing in vivo research using mice leads to questionable pathology-based findings and conclusions from studies, even in high-impact journals. We discuss the various aspects of this problem, give some examples from the literature and suggest solutions.
Insights
Reproducibility in mouse research hinges on robust pathology protocols and expert review. Ensuring accurate histopathology is crucial for reliable in vivo study findings and conclusions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Laboratory Animal Science
- Biomedical Research
Background:
- In vivo research reproducibility is vital, especially when using mice as model organisms.
- Gross and histopathology are common research endpoints, but concerns exist regarding diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility.
- Inconsistent experimental design, protocols, and data evaluation impact research reliability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of pathology in ensuring the reproducibility of in vivo mouse research.
- To address concerns about the accuracy and reproducibility of histopathological diagnoses in scientific literature.
- To propose solutions for improving pathology integration in mouse research.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of factors affecting reproducibility in mouse research, including experimental design and protocols.
- Emphasis on the importance of standardized pathology protocols, including necropsy and slide preparation.
- Highlighting the necessity of expert pathologist interpretation and review.
Main Results:
- Absence of pathology expertise in research planning, execution, and review can lead to questionable findings.
- Histopathological results require strict adherence to protocols and interpretation by experienced mouse pathologists.
- Lack of pathology consultation can compromise the validity of conclusions, even in high-impact publications.
Conclusions:
- Integrating pathology expertise throughout the research process is essential for accurate and reproducible in vivo studies.
- Standardized pathology protocols and consensus nomenclature are key to reliable histopathological assessment.
- Consulting pathologists as reviewers and collaborators strengthens the integrity of mouse research findings.
