A protocol for developing reporting guidelines for laboratory studies in Endodontology

Area of Science:

• Endodontology
• Biomedical Research
• Scientific Publishing

Background:

• Laboratory-based research is prevalent in Endodontology, contributing valuable data for clinical practice.
• Many submitted laboratory studies face rejection or require significant revisions due to methodological flaws.
• A lack of systematic approaches for evaluating laboratory study quality affects authors and reviewers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and publish quality guidelines for reporting laboratory studies in Endodontology.
• To introduce the Preferred Reporting Items for Laboratory studies in Endodontology (PRILE) guidelines.
• To aid authors in avoiding manuscript rejection and assist editors/reviewers in systematic evaluation.

Main Methods:

• A five-phase consensus process involving a steering committee, PRILE Delphi Group (PDG), and PRILE Face-to-Face Consensus Meeting Group (PFCMG).
• Identification and adaptation of existing guideline items, with refinement through Likert scale evaluations and group discussions.
• Development of draft guidelines, subject to final approval by the steering committee.

Main Results:

• The development of the PRILE guidelines through a rigorous consensus process.
• The guidelines are designed to address common flaws and limitations in laboratory-based endodontology research.
• A systematic approach for evaluating and reporting laboratory studies will be established.

Conclusions:

• The PRILE guidelines will enhance the quality and reliability of Endodontology research.
• Implementation of PRILE is expected to reduce manuscript rejection rates and improve scientific rigor.
• Dissemination through publications, presentations, and a dedicated website will ensure broad accessibility and adoption.