04/02/2024
"Did You Know?" Series: The Immortal Cells of Henrietta Lacks
Did you know that a part of a young mother from Baltimore lives on in almost every biomedical lab around the world? Meet Henrietta Lacks, the woman behind the HeLa cells, the first immortal human cell line.
In 1951, Henrietta Lacks sought treatment for cervical cancer at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Without her knowledge or consent, a sample of her cancer cells was taken during a biopsy. Unlike any other human cells cultured before, Henrietta's cells didn't die after a few days; instead, they doubled every 20-24 hours.
These extraordinary cells, named HeLa cells after the initial letters of Henrietta Lacks' name, became a cornerstone in medical research. Here's why the HeLa cells are so significant:
Medical Breakthroughs: HeLa cells have been instrumental in numerous scientific achievements, including the development of the polio vaccine, advances in cancer research, and even in the recent fight against COVID-19.
Research Replicability: Their unique ability to reproduce indefinitely and their resilience make HeLa cells perfect for scientific experiments. Researchers can perform repeated tests and obtain consistent results, a fundamental aspect of scientific research.
Ethical Controversy: The story of Henrietta Lacks and the HeLa cells also highlights important ethical issues. The cells were taken and commercialized without her or her family's consent, sparking a debate on patients' rights, consent, and compensation.
Despite passing away in 1951, Henrietta Lacks' legacy lives on through these immortal cells. The HeLa cells have not just shaped medical science but have also triggered important discussions on ethics and privacy in research. Next time you hear about a medical breakthrough, remember that it might have been made possible by the remarkable HeLa cells, a testament to the enduring impact of Henrietta Lacks.
Join us again for more fascinating facts in our "Did You Know?" series, only on Curiosity Corner.