The HeLa cell line is one of the most well-known and widely used cell lines in biomedical research. These cells were the first human cells to be successfully grown in a lab environment on a long-term basis.

The HeLa cell line originated from a biopsy taken in 1951 from a woman named Henrietta Lacks, who had a particularly aggressive form of cervical cancer. The cells from her tumor sample were found to be remarkably durable and prolific, reproducing every 24 hours, which made them ideal for conducting medical research.

The HeLa cell line has since been used in numerous scientific studies and has contributed to many important scientific advances. For example, they have been used to study the effects of radiation and toxins on cells, to investigate the function of various genes, and to develop vaccines, including the polio vaccine. Additionally, HeLa cells have been sent into space to study the effects of zero gravity on human cells.

However, the use of HeLa cells has also raised ethical issues. Henrietta Lacks and her family were not informed or gave consent for the use of her cells, and they did not receive any financial benefit from the widespread use of HeLa cells. This has led to discussions about informed consent and the ethical use of human biological materials in research.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, HeLa cells continue to be used in biomedical research worldwide, and the discussions around the ethical implications of their use also continue.