Preclinical Study
Definition
A preclinical study is research conducted before testing in humans, typically involving cell cultures, computer models, or animal experiments.
Correct Scientific Usage
Preclinical studies provide preliminary evidence about biological mechanisms, toxicity, dosing, and potential therapeutic effects. They inform whether an intervention is promising enough to warrant testing in humans. Researchers recognize that preclinical findings require validation in human clinical trials.
Common Misunderstandings
Preclinical results are often reported as if they apply directly to humans. Phrases like "new treatment shows promise" based solely on preclinical data can mislead people into believing a cure is imminent when human testing has not yet begun. Most preclinical findings do not successfully translate to clinical benefit.
Why It Matters
Understanding that preclinical studies are early-stage research helps set realistic expectations. It explains why years often pass between "breakthrough" preclinical findings and actual treatments, and why most preclinical discoveries never reach patients.
References
- The (misleading) role of animal models in drug development, Frontiers in Drug Discovery
- Analysis of animal-to-human translation, PLOS Biology
Related Terms
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