Cellular & Molecular Pathology Branch

Vision

To provide scientific collaboration of excellence to National Toxicology Program (NTP) (http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/) interdisciplinary research programs and DIR research using new technologies in biomedical research and to train pathology and lab animal fellows to be leaders in multidisciplinary research.

Mission

The Cellular and Molecular Pathology Branch (CMPB) conducts research on spontaneous and chemically induced lesions and the mechanisms by which they are induced. It also manages, evaluates, reviews and reports all pathology data generated during the conduct of the NTP toxicity and carcinogenicity studies. In addition, the CMPB maintains state-of the-science histology, electron microscopy, clinical pathology and special techniques core laboratories and provides diagnostic pathology support to all NIEHS investigators and the NIEHS laboratory animal colony.

CMPB is comprised of eight groups—led by Branch Chief Robert Sills, D.V.M., Ph.D.(http://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/atniehs/labs/lep/mole-path/index.cfm), and provides the following services:

• Develops and defines in vivo and in vitro models of experimental carcinogenesis and toxicology

• Develops new methods and technologies in pathobiology

• Establishes standards, terminology and diagnostic criteria for rodent pathology

• Maintains the NTP archives and provides laboratory animal medicine support for the NTP

• Core laboratory services including:

  • Hematology

  • Clinical chemistry

  • Histology

  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

  • Electron Microscopy (TEM)

  • Laser Microdissection

  • Phenotyping (Embryonic Lethality)

  • Digital Imaging/Analysis

  • Other Special Techniques – necropsy, frozen sections, & more