Biomedical research and experiments

When it comes to biological and medical research, three main categories of experiments can be distinguished: in silico, in vitro, and in vivo.

In silico, a neologism referring to silicon, the element that makes up the electronic parts of computers, denotes experiments conducted through computer simulations. These techniques are limited, with current technologies, by the assumptions that must be made and by the simplification of a highly complex system like that of an organism.

In vitro, or “in glass,” involves experiments conducted in a controlled laboratory environment without directly involving living organisms. The advantage of this technique is the ability to reproduce and analyze a single process, such as the response of a specific type of cell to a particular molecule, isolating it from other processes that normally occur in an organism. However, for this very reason, the data obtained do not reflect the physiology of organisms as a whole.

To obtain more relevant answers to the biological processes being investigated, confidence can be placed on in vivo experiments, which occur within the living organism. Using live animals, researchers can study the responses of organisms to tested compounds, the mechanism of action of drugs, activated biological processes, and even simulate diseases.

But is animal experimentation really necessary? To learn more, read Biomedical research and model animals.

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