During Skloot and Deborah’s meeting with Christoph Lengauer, he emphasizes the importance of Henrietta Lacks’s contribution to science and how she is remembered in the medical community. He states, “Whenever we read books about science, it’s always HeLa this and HeLa that. Some people know those are the initials of a person, but they don’t know who that person is. That’s important history.” a 525- to 700-word article that addresses the following: 3 examples from the book to support your response and cite the novel.
Title: The Significance of Henrietta Lacks’s contribution to Science as Depicted in “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks”
Introduction:
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot sheds light on the remarkable contributions of Henrietta Lacks to the field of science through her immortal cell line, known as HeLa. Henrietta Lacks remains a critical figure in medical history, with her cells continuing to revolutionize scientific research. This article aims to explore the significance of Lacks’s contributions to science as portrayed in Skloot’s book, providing three examples that demonstrate this significance.
Example 1: Pioneering Medical Advances
One example of Henrietta Lacks’s significance to science can be seen in the countless medical advances made possible because of her HeLa cells. Skloot explains that HeLa cells were the first human cells to be successfully cultured and multiplied in a laboratory setting. This momentous achievement opened doors to a wide array of medical research, including the development of vaccines, treatments, and groundbreaking discoveries on the behavior of human cells.
Skloot highlights the impact of HeLa cells by stating, “HeLa cells were one of the most important things that happened to medicine in the last hundred years” (Skloot, 2010, p. 52). With the ongoing use of these cells, medical researchers have made substantial progress in understanding diseases such as cancer, AIDS, and Parkinson’s, among others. Thus, Henrietta Lacks’s contribution has not only transformed the field of science but has also directly influenced the lives of countless individuals through improved healthcare and treatments.
Example 2: HeLa Cell Controversies and Ethics
Another aspect demonstrating Henrietta Lacks’s significance is the ethical debate that arose concerning the use of her cells without her knowledge or consent. Skloot examines the exploitative practices that characterized the early era of cell culture and the commercialization of the HeLa cell line. The book highlights the need for ethical guidelines to protect individuals’ rights and the importance of informed consent in medical research.
Skloot writes, “What bothered me most, though, wasn’t the unauthorized use of Henrietta’s cells, but that no one had ever asked her family for permission” (Skloot, 2010, p. 8). This example underscores the significance of Lacks’s story in exposing the ethical issues surrounding patient consent and the exploitation of marginalized communities in medical research. Lacks’s family has become advocates for patient rights, contributing to the reexamination and improvement of ethical standards within the scientific community.
Example 3: Raising Awareness and Recognizing Henrietta Lacks
Skloot’s book plays a pivotal role in raising awareness about Henrietta Lacks’s story and recognizing her as a foundational figure in medical research. Prior to the publication of “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” many had never heard of the woman behind the HeLa cells.
The narrative showcases Skloot’s tireless efforts to connect with Lacks’s family, understanding their suffering, and ensuring their voices are heard. By accurately portraying the life and legacy of Henrietta Lacks, the book has ignited public interest in her story. It has also prompted discussions about the intersection of race, class, and healthcare disparities that still persist today.
Skloot’s efforts have led to the establishment of the Henrietta Lacks Foundation, which aims to honor Lacks’s legacy and support her descendants through scholarship and community outreach programs. This foundation has not only helped preserve Lacks’s memory but has also played a significant role in acknowledging and commemorating her invaluable contributions to science.
Conclusion:
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” effectively portrays the immense significance of Henrietta Lacks and her HeLa cells in the field of science. Through her contribution to medical advancements, her impact on ethical discussions, and the efforts to raise awareness and recognize her legacy, Henrietta Lacks has rightfully earned her place in the scientific community. Her story serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between scientific progress, ethics, and human rights, drawing attention to the contributions of individuals whose names may otherwise be forgotten in history.