(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) In February 2026, over 70 years after doctors took Lacks’ cells without her consent or ...

Henrietta Lacks' cells were essential in developing the polio vaccine and were used in scientific landmarks such as cloning, gene mapping and in vitro fertilization. Courtesy of the Lacks family ...

(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Ivan Martinez, West Virginia University (THE CONVERSATION) In an amazing twist of fate ...

(THE CONVERSATION) In an amazing twist of fate, the aggressive cervical cancer tumor that killed Henrietta Lacks, a 31-year old African American mother, became an essential tool that helped the ...