Henrietta Lacks was an African American woman whose cells, known as "HeLa" cells, were taken without her knowledge or consent during a medical procedure in 1951. These cells were the first human cells to be successfully cultured and have since played a critical role in scientific research, leading to numerous medical breakthroughs, including the development of vaccines, cancer treatments, and insights into genetics. Unfortunately, Henrietta Lacks died of cervical cancer later that year, unaware of the invaluable contribution her cells would make to science and medicine. Her story has raised important ethical questions about patient consent and the commercialization of human tissues. Henrietta Lacks' legacy continues to influence discussions on medical ethics and informed consent in research.

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