Invivo vs. Invitro: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 18, 2023
In vivo refers to studies in living organisms; in vitro refers to studies outside living organisms, typically in test tubes.
Key Differences
In vivo and in vitro are Latin terms often used in scientific and medical contexts. In vivo translates to "within the living," and it refers to experiments or studies that are conducted within living organisms, such as humans, animals, or plants. Such studies provide insights into the biological and physiological effects of certain substances or procedures on a whole, living system.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
On the other hand, in vitro, which means "within the glass," pertains to experiments or procedures performed outside of living organisms, typically in a controlled environment such as a petri dish, test tube, or culture flask. These studies allow scientists to observe biological reactions and processes in isolation without the complexities of an entire living system.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Both in vivo and in vitro methods have their advantages and drawbacks. In vivo studies are considered more holistic as they can account for the complexities of a living system, whereas in vitro studies allow for a controlled environment where specific variables can be isolated and examined without interference.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
However, it's also worth noting that in vivo experiments might pose ethical concerns, especially when done on animals or humans. In contrast, in vitro tests eliminate many of these ethical concerns but might not always replicate the conditions of a living organism accurately.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Environment
Inside living organisms
Outside living organisms, e.g., test tubes
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Realism
More reflective of real-world biology
Might not replicate living conditions
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invivo and Invitro Definitions
Invivo
Refers to studies conducted within living organisms.
In vivo research on mice helped scientists understand the disease better.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
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Invitro
Refers to studies conducted outside living organisms.
They tested the compound's reactivity in vitro before moving to animal trials.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invivo
Pertains to biological processes occurring in a natural setting.
The in vivo effects of the drug were different from the in vitro results.
Huma Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invitro
Pertains to experiments in controlled environments, like test tubes.
The in vitro assay showed promising results against the bacteria.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invivo
Indicates experiments in whole, living organisms.
The in vivo experiment showed the vaccine was effective in preventing the disease.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invitro
Indicates tests on biological components isolated from their natural environment.
The in vitro culture of cells allowed for specific genetic modifications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
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Invivo
Reflects processes in their natural, complex environment.
The enzyme's in vivo activity was much more pronounced than anticipated.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Invitro
Reflects isolated processes without the dynamics of a whole living system.
The drug's in vitro efficacy was promising, but in vivo trials were needed.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invivo
In the context of its natural living place.
The protein’s in vivo function is essential for cell survival.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Invitro
In the context of a synthetic, controlled setting.
The protein's in vitro interactions were different than in the living cell.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
Invitro
(demoscene) An intro that provides details of a forthcoming demoparty to which viewers are invited.
Sumera Saeed
May 11, 2017
FAQs
Are there limitations to "in vivo" studies?
Yes, such as ethical concerns, high costs, and potential variability in results.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
How is "in vivo" different from "ex vivo"?
"In vivo" studies are inside a living organism, while "ex vivo" studies are outside but involve living tissues taken from an organism.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
Does "in vivo" always mean the study is more reliable than "in vitro"?
Not necessarily. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Is "in vivo" testing always done on animals?
No, it can also be done on humans, especially in clinical trials.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
Are there alternatives to "in vivo" testing?
Yes, such as in vitro, in silico, and ex vivo tests.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
What does "in vitro" mean?
"In vitro" is a Latin term meaning "in glass." It refers to experiments done outside living organisms, typically in test tubes or petri dishes.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Why is it called "in vitro"?
Historically, many of these experiments were done in glass containers.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
What is an "in vitro" fertilization?
It's a process where an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
How does "in vitro" differ from "in vivo"?
"In vitro" studies are done outside living organisms, while "in vivo" studies are inside.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
How is "in vivo" used in drug testing?
Drugs are tested on living organisms to study their effects, safety, and metabolism.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Why is "in vitro" research important?
It allows for controlled conditions and eliminates potential whole-organism variables.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Are there limitations to "in vitro" studies?
Yes, they may not capture the complexities of living systems.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
What does "in vivo" mean?
"In vivo" is a Latin term that means "within the living." It refers to experiments or processes that take place inside a living organism.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
How is "in vivo" research typically conducted?
Through animal models, human clinical trials, or other living organisms.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Is "in vitro" testing safer than "in vivo"?
It can be less ethically contentious, but safety depends on the specific context and application.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Can "in vitro" results always predict "in vivo" outcomes?
No, there can be discrepancies due to the complexities of living systems.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 18, 2023
Why is "in vivo" research important?
It provides real-life data and helps understand biological processes within a living context.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
How is "in vitro" used in drug discovery?
Drugs are tested on isolated cells or proteins to study their potential effects and mechanisms.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
How is "in vitro" research typically conducted?
Using cells, tissues, or molecular components outside of a living organism.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
