Worksheet #4 COMPLETE

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School

Belmont University *

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Course

1050

Subject

Biology

Date

Apr 3, 2024

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docx

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2

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BIO1050 - Todd Week 4 – Henrietta Lacks Listen to the podcast episode and answer the following questions. 1. Why was it helpful for scientists to develop a human cell line (cells that stably grow in dishes)? (1 pt) Developing a human cell line was crucial for scientists because it allowed them to study human biology in a controlled laboratory setting without needing a human subject. This enabled the testing of drugs, understanding cell behavior under different conditions, and conducting research that would be impossible or unethical to perform directly on people. 2. What are the uses of HeLa cells that are mentioned in the episode? (2 pts) HeLa cells were used for a wide range of scientific and medical research, including the development of the polio vaccine, research into cancer, AIDS, the effects of radiation and toxic substances, gene mapping, and many other scientific endeavors. They were instrumental in testing the effects of zero gravity on human cells in space, contributing to helping develop vaccines for various diseases. 3. There has been a lot of pain caused by improper explanations about HeLa cells when people were talking to Henrietta’s family about the use of her cells. What are important points that you think should have been clarified with her family once they learned the cells existed? (2 pts) The nature and significance of HeLa cells, including how they were being used for scientific research and the impact of this research on medicine and humanity. Clarification on what it means for cells to live outside of Henrietta’s body, emphasizes that these cells do not constitute a living person. Information about the consent process at the time of Henrietta's treatment and how practices and ethical standards have evolved since then. 4. Why was it problematic that the HeLa genome was initially publicly available online? What issues arose after this initial publication of the genome? (1 pt) Making the HeLa genome publicly available raised significant privacy concerns for Henrietta Lacks' family, as it potentially exposed personal genetic information about her descendants. This action was taken without the family's consent or knowledge, echoing the original ethical violations of when Henrietta's cells were first used. Issues that arose included the potential for misuse of genetic data, violation of the family’s privacy, and the risk of revealing predispositions to certain diseases. 5. What was surprising to you, or changed your thinking? (1 pt)
BIO1050 - Todd The most surprising aspect of this story, for me, was learning about the impact that Henrietta Lacks' cells have had on modern medicine and scientific research. It was eye- opening to realize that a single individual's cell line could contribute to such an array of medical advancements, from the polio vaccine to space missions. It made me reflect on the value of human life and the importance of consent and recognition in scientific endeavors. Henrietta's story is a reminder of the human stories behind scientific progress and the need for ethical considerations to keep pace with technological advancements. 6. What is one question you still have about this information? (1 pt) Despite the information provided, I’m left wondering about the current state of ethical practices in biomedical research, particularly regarding consent and the use of biological materials. How has Henrietta’s story impacted policies and practices around informed consent in medical research? Are there measures in place now to ensure that individuals and their families are fully informed and appropriately compensated for contributions that have the potential to benefit science and medicine?
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