preclinici

Preclinici is a plural form used in several languages to refer to the preclinical stage or to individuals associated with it. The term appears in two related but distinct contexts: drug development and medical education. In general, something described as preclinical lies before direct patient care or clinical testing.

In the context of drug development, preclinical studies are research and testing conducted before human trials. These studies assess safety and biological activity using in vitro (cell-based) methods and in vivo (animal) models, as well as pharmacokinetics and toxicology. The goal is to establish dosing ranges, identify potential risks, and generate data required to begin clinical testing in humans, often under regulatory frameworks that require good laboratory practice and animal welfare considerations.

In medical education, preclinical refers to the initial phase of training before clinical rotations. Students study foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, and introductory pharmacology, typically without direct patient contact. The preclinical period emphasizes theoretical knowledge and laboratory work, followed by transition to clinical training where patient care and bedside learning occur.

Ethical and regulatory considerations are central to preclinical work in both senses. In research, guidelines such as those governing animal use and safety testing apply, with emphasis on minimizing harm and adhering to the principles of replacement, reduction, and refinement. In education, curricula are designed to prepare students for safe and effective clinical practice.

Regional usage of the term and its exact scope can vary by language and institution, but the core idea remains the same: activities or individuals operating before the clinical or patient-facing phase.