Molecular Biology and HeLa Cells

Growth of Cell Biology

• Explosive growth in cell biology research began in the 1950s, parallel to advances in molecular biology.
• Cultivation and manipulation of cells outside living organisms became feasible.

HeLa Cells

• First continuous cell line cultured in 1951 by George Otto Gey from cervical cancer cells of Henrietta Lacks, who died the same year.
• HeLa cells represent a pivotal advancement in cell biology, akin to the role of DNA structure in molecular biology.

Advances in Cell Culture

• Significant progress in cell culture included identifying minimal media requirements for cell growth.
• Development of sterile cell culture techniques facilitated better maintenance and study of cells.

Technological Contributions

• Electron microscopy advancements enhanced the ability to visualize cellular structures.
• Later innovations included transfection methods, green fluorescent protein discovery in jellyfish, and identification of small interfering RNA (siRNA).

Continued Study of Cells

• Ongoing exploration in cytology focuses on cellular structure and function.
• Enhanced equipment such as cytology microscopes and specialized reagents has advanced cellular studies, particularly in clinical applications.

This quiz explores the significant advancements in molecular biology and cell culture techniques that emerged in the 1950s. It highlights the pioneering work of George Otto Gey and the creation of the HeLa cell line from Henrietta Lacks' cervical cancer cells. Learn about the impact of these developments on modern cell biology and research.