The Comparative Pathology Laboratory (CPL) is a research core in the Department of Pathology at the University of Iowa fully devoted to translational research. 

Our mission is to maximize the impact, relevance, and quality of research studies modeling human disease. We provide necropsy and histology services to the University of Iowa and external investigators.

Necropsy services

Experienced staff can provide customized necropsy and tissue handling services to meet your needs.

  • Macroscopic examination
  • Data collection (measurements, weights)
  • Necropsy
  • Tissue prosection
  • Fixation
  • Gross sectioning
  • Cryopreservation
  • OCT embedding
  • Tissue specific orientation for embedding
  • Preprinted cassettes with sample ID’s for users
  • Provide jars of 10% Neutral Buffered Formalin for users

Histology services

Histology services are directed by certified histotechnologists experienced in research studies.

  • Tissue processing
  • Paraffin embedding
  • Sectioning with microtome or cryostat
  • Histochemical stains
  • Special stains
  • Immunohistochemistry (IHC), including optimization and validation

CPL Sample Submission Form

All requests for STAT projects must be reviewed/validated by Dr. Meyerholz. If approved, additional charges will be applied.

Fill out the form

Contact information

Please contact pathology-cpl@uiowa.edu with project inquiries or questions about our services.

Thomas Businga (thomas-businga@uiowa.edu)

David Meyerholz, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVP & ACVM (Director)