Providing high-quality research trainig for veterinary pathologists in Europe

The ECVP (member of the European Board of Veterinary Specialisation) (Kipar and others 2006) and the European Society of Veterinary Pathology (ESVP), set up the joint "ECVP/ESVP Education Committee" (EC) with the objective of establishing a high-standard, structured postgraduate training courses in core skills and latest research techniques in veterinary pathology. In 2001, the EC engaged itself into the development of the "ECVP/ESVP Summer Schools in Veterinary Pathology". The Summer Schools provide complementary research training for veterinarians aiming for a career in veterinary pathology and planning to sit the ECVP (or American (A)CVP) certifying examination

Maternal exposure to a human relevant mixture of persistent organic pollutants reduces colorectal carcinogenesis in A/J Min/+ mice

An increased risk of developing colorectal cancer has been associated with exposure to persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and alteration in the gut bacterial community. However, there is limited understanding about the impact of maternal exposure to POPs on colorectal cancer and gut microbiota. This study characterized the influence of exposure to a human relevant mixture of POPs during gestation and lactation on colorectal cancer, intestinal metabolite composition and microbiota in the A/J Min/+ mouse model. Surprisingly, the maternal POP exposure decreased colonic tumor burden, as shown by light microscopy and histopathological evaluation, indicating a restriction of colorectal carcinogenesis. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy-based metabolomic analysis identified alterations in the metabolism of amino acids, lipids, glycerophospholipids and energy in intestinal tissue. In addition, 16S rRNA sequencing of gut microbiota indicated that maternal exposure modified fecal bacterial composition. In conclusion, the results showed that early-life exposure to a mixture of POPs reduced colorectal cancer initiation and promotion, possibly through modulation of the microbial and biochemical environment. Further studies should focus on the development of colorectal cancer after combined maternal and dietary exposures to environmentally relevant low-dose POP mixtures