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The immortal cells of Henrietta Lacks - Robin Bulleri

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Imagine something small enough to float on a particle of dust that holds the keys to understanding cancer, virology, and genetics. Luckily for us, such a thing exists in the form of trillions upon trillions of human, lab-grown cells called HeLa. But where did we get these cells? Robin Bulleri tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a woman whose DNA led to countless cures, patents, and discoveries.

A disadvantage of working with HeLa cells in a laboratory is that:

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Robin Bulleri
  • Script Editor Eleanor Nelsen
  • Animator Brandon Denmark
  • Narrator Pen-Pen Chen

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