Which regulatory body mandates that the IACUC must have a Chairperson?

The correct answer is that the USDA/APHIS mandates that the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) must have a Chairperson. This requirement is part of the Animal Welfare Act regulations, which outline the structure and functions of IACUCs in research institutions. Having a Chairperson is critical for ensuring that the IACUC operates effectively, overseeing the review process of animal use protocols, and maintaining compliance with federal regulations.

The USDA's guidelines emphasize the need for leadership within the IACUC to facilitate proper functioning and oversight. The Chairperson plays a significant role in managing meetings, ensuring that all members are aware of their obligations, and fostering communication among the committee and institutional officials.

Regarding the other regulatory bodies, while the NIH and OLAW have guidelines that relate to the care and use of animals in research, they do not specifically mandate having a Chairperson for the IACUC. The FDA is also involved in animal research regulations but does not set forth this requirement. This clarifies why the USDA/APHIS is the appropriate choice for this question.