HeLa

HeLa is a cell type in an immortal cell line used in scientific research. It is the oldest and most commonly used human cell line. The line was derived from cervical cancer cells taken on February 8, 1951, from Henrietta Lacks, a patient who died of cancer on October 4, 1951. The cell line was found to be remarkably durable and prolific, which warrants its extensive use in scientific research.

History

The cells from Henrietta Lacks were taken without her knowledge or consent, which was common practice at the time. Her family was not made aware of the line's existence until 1975. Since the cells' mass production and commercialization, Lacks's family have never received any financial compensation or recognition for their contribution.

Characteristics

HeLa cells are notable for their ability to reproduce indefinitely under specific conditions. This characteristic makes them a good model for studying the effects of various variables on cell growth and metabolism. They have been used in research to develop the polio vaccine, study cancer, and advance in vitro fertilization, cloning, and gene mapping.

Ethical Issues

The use of HeLa cells has raised ethical and legal issues, including informed consent and privacy. It has prompted changes in U.S. law and changes in practices regarding informed consent and compensation in genetic research.

In Popular Culture

The story of Henrietta Lacks and HeLa cells was popularized by Rebecca Skloot's 2010 book, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, and a subsequent HBO film of the same name starring Oprah Winfrey.

See Also

• Cell culture
• Henrietta Lacks
• Informed consent
• Polio vaccine

References

HeLa Resources
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