Review for 10.1186/s12876-019-1149-z (2019)

Reviewer’s report
Title: Validity of biopsy-based drug effects in a diet-induced obese mouse model of biopsyconfirmed
NASH
Version: 0 Date: 10 Oct 2019
Reviewer: Paul Kelly
Reviewer's report:
This is an interesting manuscript describing methodological work related to assessment of NASH. The
question is: does a single biopsy fully represent the changes which drug treatment can bring about in
this animal model. The answer appears to be, with certain caveats, yes. The authors also go on to
describe the effects of three pharmacological interventions applied to this model of NASH. The three
drugs appear to do different things. The manuscript is well-written and the scientific method sound.
However, I would recommend three changes:
1 Re-consider the title. Is this really about methodology, or was the real objective to describe the effects
of the drugs? The authors should consider if it might be better to focus the title on the pharmacological
effects, with the stereo logy as a valuable preparatory step.
2 What is INT-767? While I appreciate that this is a drug in development, some summary of its
mechanism of action would make the paper much more attractive.
3 The legend to Figure 2 is difficult to read and should be re-worked. Why is the term "slaps" used?
This means nothing to me. If it is a term used in some stereology work it needs to be explained,
otherwise this legend, and related text, should be re-written. 
Are the methods appropriate and well described?
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.
Yes
Does the work include the necessary controls?
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.
Yes
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?
If not, please explain in your comments to the authors.
Yes
Are you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an additional
statistical review?
If  an  additional  statistical  review  is  recommended,  please  specify  what  aspects  require  further
assessment in your comments to the editors.
I am able to assess the statistics
Quality of written English
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:
Acceptable
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