In vivo is a Latin term that refers to processes happening within a living organism.
Understanding "In Vivo"
The term in vivo translates from Latin as "in (something) living." In the context of science and medicine, it describes experiments, tests, or procedures conducted on or within a whole, living organism. This organism can be a laboratory animal or even a human being.
Key Characteristics of In Vivo Studies:
- Living Subject: The defining feature is the use of a complete, living organism.
- Complexity: In vivo studies capture the complexity of biological interactions within the organism.
- Relevance: Results from in vivo studies are often considered more directly relevant to human physiology than in vitro studies.
Examples of In Vivo Studies:
- Clinical Trials: Testing new drugs on human participants to assess their safety and efficacy.
- Animal Studies: Evaluating the effects of a new treatment on disease progression in laboratory animals.
- Imaging Techniques: Using MRI or PET scans to observe organ function in a living subject.
In Vivo vs. In Vitro
It's important to differentiate in vivo from in vitro.
| Feature | In Vivo | In Vitro |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | In a living organism | In a controlled environment outside a living organism |
| Subject | Whole living organism (animal or human) | Cells, tissues, or organs in a dish or test tube |
| Complexity | High | Lower |
| Relevance | Generally considered more directly relevant to humans | Useful for studying specific mechanisms |
