In vitro methods offer several advantages over traditional in vivo testing:
- Ethical Considerations: By reducing the reliance on animal testing, in vitro methods align with the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) in animal research.
- Cost-Effectiveness: These methods often require fewer resources and can be more economical than in vivo studies.
- Speed and Efficiency: In vitro methods, such as high-throughput screening, can rapidly assess the toxicity of numerous compounds.
- Specificity and Reproducibility: Experiments can be designed with high specificity, leading to more consistent and reproducible results.
