The term "in vivo" originates from Latin, where "in" means "in" or "within," and "vivo" translates to "alive" or "living." In scientific contexts, "in vivo" refers to experiments, studies, or observations conducted on a living organism or system, typically within its natural habitat or usual physiological conditions.
In a broad sense, "in vivo" describes processes or phenomena that occur within a living organism. This may involve investigating the function, behavior, or response of a specific cell, organ, tissue, or entire organism. For example, drug efficacy or toxicity studies are often performed by administering a drug to a live animal or human subject and analyzing its effects on the body.
Research conducted "in vivo" aims to closely replicate the natural conditions of the organism, allowing scientists to observe the responses and interactions that occur within a living system. It provides valuable insights into how biological mechanisms operate and respond to various stimuli or interventions.
Different professions, including medicine, pharmacology, physiology, and biology, heavily rely on in vivo experimentation to better understand disease mechanisms, evaluate treatment options, and improve patient outcomes. This approach often complements in vitro (outside the living organism) and in silico (using computer simulations) experiments, offering a more comprehensive understanding of complex biological processes.
Overall, the term "in vivo" signifies research conducted within a living organism or system, enabling scientists to investigate biological phenomena and gain valuable knowledge on the functioning of living organisms.
