The Legacy of Henrietta Lacks: How One Woman’s Cells Changed Science

Henrietta Lacks’ cervical cancer cells, taken without her consent in 1951, led to the creation of the first immortal human cell line—HeLa cells. These cells have played a crucial role in medical breakthroughs, from the polio vaccine to cancer research. However, their unauthorized use raised ethical concerns about patient rights and informed consent. Today, the legacy of HeLa cells continues to drive scientific progress while shaping discussions on medical ethics and research transparency?