In vivo vs in vitro systems

The etymological origins of in vivo and in vitro comes from Latin, in vivo describes something within a living organism while in vitro describes something in glass such as a test tube or petri dish. An in vivo study involves living organism such as animals or plants. In vitro experiments refer to work carried out with cells, tissues or other biological components that have been removed from the living organism of interest. While in vivo and in vitro are both essential for biological research, they present their own advantages and challenges.

Before an experimental drug is studied in vivo, it is important for its mechanism of action and complexity to be thoroughly evaluated by in vitro models. In vitro models provide a starting point for researchers to gather insights into how cells response to a new drug in a controlled and isolated environment.