Henrietta Lacks

Henrietta Lacks (born Loretta Pleasant; August 1, 1920 – October 4, 1951) was an African-American woman whose cancer cells led to significant medical advancements. Her cells are the source of the HeLa cell line, the first immortalized human cell line and one of the most vital cell lines in medical research.

Early Life and Background

Henrietta Lacks was born on August 1, 1920, in Roanoke, Virginia, to Eliza and Johnny Pleasant. Her family was poor, and she spent most of her early life in Clover, Virginia. She married David "Day" Lacks in 1941, and they had five children together.

Health Challenges and HeLa Cell Line

In 1951, Lacks was diagnosed with cervical cancer, and during treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital, a sample of her cancer cells was taken without her knowledge or consent. These cells became the HeLa cell line. Unlike most cells, which die within a few days, Lacks' cells reproduced indefinitely under specific conditions, making them "immortal."

This immortality and the rapid reproduction of the HeLa cell line made it invaluable to medical research. The cells have been used in the development of the polio vaccine, cloning, gene mapping, in vitro fertilization, and more.

Ethical Controversy

The use of Lacks' cells without her or her family's consent has sparked significant ethical controversy and changes in medical consent practices. The Lacks family was not aware of the cell line's existence until 20 years after her death. Despite the vast amount of wealth generated by the HeLa cell line, the Lacks family has not received any financial compensation.

Legacy

Despite the controversy, Lacks' unwitting contribution to science has been invaluable. The HeLa cell line continues to be a vital resource in medical and biological research. Lacks' life and the impact of her cells have been the subject of numerous books and documentaries, including the best-selling book "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot.

Related pages

• Medical ethics
• Informed consent
• Cell culture

References

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  Henrietta Lacks

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  Lacks Town Road, Clover, VA

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  HeLa cells

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  Henrietta Lacks historical marker

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  Henrietta Lacks Educational Park

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  Henrietta Lacks statue, Bristol, RHS