Where's the Mouse Pathology Training?

Abstract

Phenotypic analysis of genetically engineered mice and detailed evaluations of mouse models of disease have become increasingly important areas of expertise for the veterinary pathologist. Over the last few years, several articles, editorials, and letters have appeared in journals and in the news media, emphasizing the common theme of ‘‘one medicine —one pathology.’’ These articles highlight a few key observations: 1) pathologists are the ‘‘gatekeepers of translational research,’’ 2) mice represent 90% or more of the animals used in National Institutes of Health (NIH)–funded research, 3) there is an acute shortage of mouse pathologists in biomedical research, and 4) the lack of pathology support has, on occasion, led to erroneous interpretations that have been published in scientific journals. 1–8,10,12 Unfortunately, while veterinary pathology residents leave training programs well prepared for diagnostic pathology, it appears that most residents get only limited, if any, exposure to either routine or unusual lesions unique to mice. In support of this observation, unpublished data derived from the Veterinary Student and Resident Forum, a forum held at the American College of Veterinary Pathologists’ (ACVP) meeting for veterinary students interested in pathology residencies, revealed that 67% of the responding programs stated that ,5% of their total caseload was composed of laboratory animals. Thus it can be assumed that these trainees have minimal exposure to mice despite the fact that mice are used far more often in biomedical research than any other animals. 11 In the fall of 2007, a small, informal group of members of the ACVP began discussing the unique challenges facing veterinary pathologists who provide research pathology support in medical schools or research institutions. These pathologists are often the sole veterinary pathologist, and the majority of the casework involves experimental mouse pathology and genetically engineered mice. These mouse models often display complex or unique pathologic alterations, which are often compounded by experimental studies. A networking system of ‘‘mouse pathologists’’ would be a valuable resource for those of us currently in such positions—hence the formation of ‘‘The Mouse Pathologists’ Consortium’’ (MPC). The goal of this group was to formalize the loose network of mouse pathologists into a supportive community that could serve as a resource for those working in the research diagnostic environment. With this consortium, the foundation has been placed to promote the dissemination of information and the education of present and future mouse pathologists. At present, the group has over 50 members not only from research academics but also from veterinary schools and industry. This collegial interaction has resulted in a close common interest group and established a useful Web-based