Hela cells

HeLa cells are an immortal cell line used in scientific research. They are 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 her cancer on October 4, 1951. The cell line was found to be remarkably durable and prolific, which allows it to be used extensively in scientific research.

History

The HeLa cell line was developed by George Otto Gey, a researcher at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The cells were taken from a tumor biopsy of Henrietta Lacks, a 31-year-old African-American woman who was being treated for cervical cancer. Without her knowledge or consent, her cancer cells were cultured by Gey, who discovered that they could be kept alive and would grow indefinitely.

Characteristics

HeLa cells are epithelial cells of a cervical cancer origin. They are adherent cells, meaning they require a surface to attach to for growth. HeLa cells are known for their ability to proliferate rapidly and indefinitely, a characteristic that makes them "immortal" in cell culture.

Genetic Properties

HeLa cells have a hypertriploid karyotype, which means they have an abnormal number of chromosomes. They contain multiple copies of human papillomavirus 18 (HPV-18) DNA, which is integrated into their genome. This integration is believed to be a key factor in the cells' cancerous properties.

Morphology

HeLa cells are typically spindle-shaped and have a high nucleus-to-cytoplasm ratio. They exhibit a high degree of pleomorphism, which is common in cancer cells.

Applications in Research

HeLa cells have been used in a wide range of scientific research, including:

Cancer Research

HeLa cells have been instrumental in cancer research, helping scientists understand the mechanisms of cancer cell growth and proliferation. They have been used to study the effects of radiation, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments.

Virology

HeLa cells were crucial in the development of the polio vaccine. They have been used to study various viruses, including HIV, herpes simplex virus, and influenza.

Drug Testing

Due to their rapid growth and ease of maintenance, HeLa cells are often used in drug testing and development. They provide a consistent model for testing the efficacy and toxicity of new drugs.

Ethical Considerations

The use of HeLa cells has raised significant ethical issues, particularly regarding informed consent. Henrietta Lacks was not informed that her cells were being cultured, nor did she or her family receive any compensation. This case has led to changes in policies regarding patient consent and the use of human tissues in research.

Controversies

The HeLa cell line has been involved in several controversies, including issues of privacy and intellectual property. The publication of the HeLa genome raised concerns about the privacy of Henrietta Lacks' descendants.

Legacy

Henrietta Lacks' contribution to science has been recognized posthumously. Her story has highlighted the importance of ethical standards in medical research and has led to increased awareness of the rights of patients and research subjects.

See Also

• Cell culture
• Immortalized cell line
• Henrietta Lacks
• Informed consent

External Links

• [HeLa Cells at ATCC](https://www.atcc.org/products/all/CCL-2.aspx)
• [Henrietta Lacks Foundation](https://henriettalacksfoundation.org/)