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Rebuttal from Dr. Shapiro

University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Overall, Drs. Holgate and Wenzel and I are saying largely the same thing from a different perspective. Animal modelers see the glass as at least half full, whereas human investigators see it from the half-empty side. In fairness, asthma researchers are rightfully more jaded than others, as asthma animal models have proven to be challenging and fraught with failure. Yet, if the animal model is relevant, the bet here is that general (patho)biological mechanisms in mice and humans will be very similar. Important details may differ, and our job is to define these similarities and differences. In the long run, we might learn just as much or more from the differences as we do from the similarities.

I fully agree that reference to an animal model needs to be stated in the title (as this author has always done). Finally, let me comment regarding the perceived discrimination against human studies in high-impact journals. It is true that human research poses particular difficulties in meeting the rigorous causal and mechanistic standards of many of these journals. But, it should not be forgotten that this American Thoracic Society journal (AJRCCM) is very friendly to human studies and has a greater impact factor than its sister basic research journal (AJRCMB). Let us also not forget that the New England Journal of Medicine, the ultimate "human" journal, now has an impact factor of 44, dwarfing Science, the journal with the second highest impact factor of 30. Thus, although human investigation is difficult and publication potentially a struggle, the clinical arena rules—and appropriately so. It is hoped that we can bring the two worlds together and understand and translate findings in animal models to improve patient care. An open debate among the constituents of the different camps is an ideal way to continue to bring us to a common understanding and collaboration.

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