The plans made by Flatt and Gold seem to be a reasonable potential inter-institutional collaboration. However, the researchers' respective IACUCs seem hesitant to assume responsibility for oversight of the collaborative pilot study. As Flatt and the naked mole rat colony are located at BeachFront University, the BeachFront IACUC is responsible for reviewing the pilot study. It is worth noting that there is no federal requirement that both IACUCs carry out a dual review of protocols that include inter-institutional collaborations.

In this instance, the BeachFront and Great Eastern IACUCs would both benefit by maintaining transparency in their communications and recognizing the benefits of successful collaboration. Each scientist and institution has expertise in different areas, so members of the BeachFront IACUC could acknowledge their limited background in biomedical research and involve one or more consultants, as suggested in the Animal Welfare Act, “to assist in the review of complex issues arising out of its review of proposed activities”1.

This consultant could be Gold, since he could explain his research on gene expression in cancer, the value of the proposed comparative study, and the number of animals that are needed to provide tissues for his in vitro study. This information would help to educate members of the BeachFront IACUC and possibly allay their concerns about breeding too many animals for Gold's study. In turn, Great Eastern IACUC could invite Flatt to serve as a consultant, as someone who is knowledgeable about the biology and behavior of the naked mole rat. Both IACUCs should be provided with the curricula vitae of the prospective collaborating scientists, along with biographies or supplemental information that explain their individual backgrounds and areas of expertise. If the collaborative protocol stipulates that other individuals besides Flatt would conduct in vivo procedures, then information on their background, skills and expertise should also be made available to the Great Eastern IACUC.

Straightforward sharing and exchange of information between IACUCs could provide the BeachFront IACUC with a sufficient level of comfort and understanding to approve the pilot study. However, a formal written document such as a memorandum of understanding could also be beneficial, if needed or desired2. Such an agreement of understanding could address and clarify each institution's respective responsibilities for animal ownership and animal care and use—including euthanasia and the collection, preparation and transportation of tissues—as well as IACUC review and oversight.

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