WI-38

WI-38 is a cell line derived from lung fibroblasts of a female fetus aborted in 1962. This cell line was developed by Leonard Hayflick and Paul Moorhead in the early 1960s, marking a significant advancement in medical research and virology. WI-38 cells are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes, which is a characteristic of normal human cells. This makes them highly valuable for research purposes, as they closely mimic the natural cellular environment in humans.

Development and Use

The WI-38 cell line was developed through the isolation of lung fibroblasts from a three-month-old female fetus. The fetus was legally aborted, and the cells were obtained with the consent of the mother. Hayflick and Moorhead were the first to successfully create a cell line that could replicate for many generations without becoming cancerous, a phenomenon now known as the Hayflick limit. Before the development of WI-38, most cell cultures used in research were derived from cancer cells and had an unlimited capacity to replicate. The finite replication capability of WI-38 cells made them more similar to normal human cells, providing a more accurate model for human biology and disease.

WI-38 cells have been used extensively in medical research, including the development of vaccines for various diseases such as rubella, rabies, adenovirus, measles, and chickenpox. The use of these cells in vaccine production has been credited with saving millions of lives worldwide. Additionally, WI-38 cells have been instrumental in the study of cancer, genetic disorders, aging, and the effects of radiation and toxic substances on human cells.

Ethical Considerations

The use of WI-38 cells has raised ethical questions, particularly regarding the use of cells derived from aborted fetuses. Some groups oppose the use of these cells on moral or religious grounds. However, many in the scientific and medical communities argue that the benefits derived from research using WI-38 cells justify their use. The development of vaccines using WI-38 cells has prevented countless deaths and has significantly advanced our understanding of human biology and disease.

Legacy

The WI-38 cell line has had a profound impact on medical research and public health. Its development marked a turning point in cell biology, allowing researchers to study human cells in the laboratory in ways that were not previously possible. The vaccines developed using WI-38 cells have had a global impact, eradicating or significantly reducing the incidence of several deadly diseases. The ethical debate surrounding the use of WI-38 cells continues, but their contribution to science and medicine is undeniable.