According to USDA regulations, failure to correct a significant deficiency must be reported within how many days by whom?

The correct choice indicates that a significant deficiency, if not corrected, must be reported within 15 days by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) through the Institutional Official (IO). This aligns with USDA regulations that mandate timely reporting to ensure compliance and animal welfare. The requirement for the report to come from the IACUC underlines their role in overseeing animal care and use practices. Involving the IO reflects the collaborative nature of how the institution manages compliance and addresses any deficiencies. This mechanism ensures that accountability is maintained at both the committee level and institutional level, facilitating appropriate corrective actions.

Other options do not reflect the combination of parties and timelines specified in USDA regulations concerning significant deficiencies. The involvement of the IACUC and the specific 15-day timeframe is essential in keeping institutions accountable while providing a clear structure for corrective actions in response to deficiencies.