Exploratory pathology involves the comprehensive analysis and interpretation of tissue samples to understand the mechanisms of disease and disease pathogenesis (i.e., how a disease functions). Exploratory, or discovery, pathology primarily occurs in early-stage research and development but can also provide ongoing insight on projects during the drug development process. Exploratory pathology goes beyond traditional diagnostic pathology, which typically focuses on identifying and diagnosing diseases based on tissue examination, to incorporate a wide array of pathologic concepts important to health and disease progression into the development of new therapies. Exploratory pathologists have expertise in comparative and translational medicine, pathological processes, and biomedical research fields. They provide scientific expertise and serve as key partners in the drug development process.

Key aspects of exploratory pathology include:

1. Evaluating and conducting studies to understand the underlying mechanisms of disease development and progression, including the study of how disease works at the molecular and cellular levels.
2. Determining how different therapies influence disease processes and overall health.
3. Working with biomedical research and clinical teams to provide insights that help guide the direction of research and treatment. This often includes advising on study design, interpreting complex data, and suggesting potential avenues for further research.

Use cases that demonstrate the benefits of exploratory pathology

Challenge 1:
A pathologist notes an increase in the number of mononuclear cells in the spleen related to test article administration, but the mechanism and cell populations remain unknown.

However…
Through exploratory pathology, experts:

1. Identify the immune cell population using specialized techniques
2. Determine the immunopathogenic mechanisms occurring based on the nature of the test article to propose “next steps” for discovery study design and evaluation

Challenge 2: 
A new autoimmune model (in rabbits) is being developed and a pathologist sees differences between the findings in the standard mouse versus the new rabbit model.

However…
Through exploratory pathology, the translational species-, immune- and immunopathogenic-mechanisms contributing to the differences are discussed and suggestions on model refinement and future studies to optimize the new rabbit model are provided.

Challenge 3: 
A humanized mouse model is used to evaluate a novel cell therapy (immunotherapy), and unexpected findings are observed by the study pathologist. The cause of these findings are unknown.

However…
Through exploratory pathology, experts determine what changes are due to the model system versus the cell therapy and the immunopathogenic mechanisms involved. They discuss how attributes of the novel cell therapy may be causing these findings.

StageBio expertise in the field of exploratory pathology

StageBio pathologists leverage significant in-depth knowledge that spans not only comparative and translational medicine, but also fundamental mechanisms of health and disease and how these mechanisms are impacted by new therapies.  Most StageBio pathologists are PhD graduates with advanced training in various biomedical specialties which means in addition to their advanced veterinary pathology training, they also possess the research knowledge and skillsets critical for development of new therapies. The combination of training and expertise in veterinary pathology, biomedical research, and specialty areas allows exploratory pathologists to go beyond diagnosing specific findings to providing in-depth contributions pertaining to mechanisms of toxicity, impact on disease, and development of therapies.

Learn more about the importance of exploratory pathology and how StageBio can assist

Overall, exploratory pathology plays a critical role in early-stage research and development, especially in areas like drug development, novel therapeutic strategies, and understanding complex disease mechanisms. It requires a deep knowledge of pathology, research methods, and clinical applications, making it a vital field for advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes.

Learn more about exploratory pathology and get in touch.