In-Vitro is a term used to describe scientific research, often biological in nature, that takes place outside of living organisms. The term In-Vitro is from the Latin phrase “In Glass,” and is commonly referred to as “test-tube” experiments.
Examples of in vitro studies include those in simulated tissue models, petri dish cultures, and laboratory flasks. These types of experiments often allow researchers a more detailed look at underlying physiological processes that can help steer the course of direction for future research.
It’s important to recognize that results from in vitro experiments often do not accurately, or certainly at least not fully, predict results from similar experimentation on a whole organism.
One major advantage of in vitro experimentation is the simplicity of design it offers researchers. Living things are very complex and there are often unknown variables at play. Isolating certain tissues, metabolic systems, or organs can help develop knowledge on which we can build a deeper understanding of the complex whole.