1. Introduction
What are HeLa cells?
HeLa cells are human epithelial cells obtained from a 31-year-old cervical cancer patient named Henrietta Lacks in 1951. Since then, these generated cells have been cultivated ever since for global studies and research projects. These cells were the first human immortal cell line, and they are still widely used today, having contributed to many studies [1].
2. Characteristics of HeLa cells
Cell growth and structure
Because HeLa cells continue to divide and proliferate more quickly than other cell lines—which can double in as little as 24 hours—they are thought to be the core of immortal cells. A large number of cells are available for an extensive range of uses given their rapid proliferation.
The fact that HeLa cells are aberrant cells is one of their intriguing features. HeLa cells have between 70 and 90 chromosomes, in contrast to normal human cells, which have 46 chromosomes. Over time, genetic modifications resulting from this aberration may give rise to variations in traits [2].
A scratch assay video of HeLa cells created with the JuLI Stage (a live cell imaging system)
3. In studies
This cell line has contributed to many medical breakthroughs, from research on the effects of zero gravity in outer space and the development of polio and COVID-19 vaccines, to the study of leukemia, the AIDS virus, and cancer worldwide [3]. HeLa cells are also actively involved in genetic research to understand the basis of genetic disorders.
A. Use in medical field
HeLa cells were the best option for developing the polio vaccine since they were easily infected to the disease yet did not die, making the research simpler and more effective. The polio vaccine was developed mostly using HeLa cells and is now 99 percent eradicated.
HeLa cells are often used in cancer research since they are derived from cervical carcinoma. In addition to helping researchers understand how the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes cervical cancer, this cell line is still widely used in anticancer drug testing and cancer research.
HeLa cells proliferate quickly, which makes them helpful for studying biological processes like cell division and DNA replication. Many researchers continue to utilize HeLa cells by treating them with various treatments in an attempt to find the unknown area in replication and division.
B. Use in genetic studies
To learn more about human genetics and disorders, this cell line is also utilized for genome sequencing and expression regulation. HeLa cells are used in various genetic disorder studies, such as the telomerase enzyme's role in biological aging and genetic disorders that cause aberrant aging.
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Introducing NanoEntek latest automated cell counters
Cell types | Cell lines, primary cells |
Measuring range | 5x10E4 - 2x10E7 4x10E5 - 1x10E7 (optimal) |
Loading volume | 15 μL |
Staining reagent | Acridine orange / DAPI |
Cell types | Cell lines, primary cells |
Measuring range | 5x10E4 - 2x10E74x10E5 - 1x10E7 (optimal) |
Loading volume | 15 μL |
Staining reagent | Acridine orange / DAPI |
21 CFR Part 11 compliant | Yes |
NanoEntek also provides a live cell imaging system
Objective lens | 4x, 10x, 20x |
Channel type | Brightfield, GFP, RFP, DAPI |
Vessel type | Well plate, flask, dish, slide |
Incubator installation | Available |
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