Henrietta's cells continue to be a vital tool in scientific research from "summary" of The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot,Gregory Mone
Henrietta Lacks unknowingly made a monumental contribution to science when her cells were taken without her consent in 1951. These cells, known as HeLa cells, have proved to be invaluable in numerous scientific discoveries and medical advancements over the years. Researchers have used Henrietta's cells to develop vaccines, study viruses, and even test the effects of radiation and toxins. HeLa cells have been instrumental in the field of cancer research, helping scientists understand how cancer cells behave and respond to different treatments. They have also been used to study the effects of various drugs on human cells, leading to the development of new medications and treatments for a wide range of diseases.
Despite the immense impact Henrietta's cells have had on scientific research, her family remained largely unaware of their significance for many years. It was not until 1973 that they learned about the existence of HeLa cells and the role they played in numerous scientific breakthroughs.
Henrietta's cells continue to be in high demand by researchers around the world due to their unique properties that allow them to replicate indefinitely. This characteristic has made HeLa cells an invaluable tool in the study of cell biology, genetics, and many other fields of science.
The story of Henrietta Lacks and her immortal cells serves as a reminder of the ethical considerations that must be taken into account when conducting research involving human subjects. It also highlights the importance of informed consent and the need to ensure that individuals are aware of how their biological samples may be used in scientific research.
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