Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Chapter 1-2)

Front

What metaphor does the author use to describe the cytoplasm?

Back

"The cytoplasm buzzes like a New York City street." This metaphor helps the reader understand how busy the cytoplasm is with an understandable comparison.

Front

How many of Henrietta's cells are currently alive today?

Back

There is no way to know.

Front

Where does the author first learn about Henrietta Lacks?

Back

From a science teacher.

Front

Why did Henrietta go to the doctor?

Back

She had found a lump on her cervix.

Front

What statement indicates that Henrietta was tough?

Back

"Patient had one toothache for nearly five years; tooth eventually extracted with several others" (Skloot 16).

Front

What is the significance of Henrietta's cells in medical research?

Back

Henrietta's cells, known as HeLa cells, were the first immortal human cell line and have been used in numerous medical breakthroughs.

Front

What does the term 'immortal cells' refer to?

Back

Cells that can divide indefinitely in a laboratory setting, such as HeLa cells.

Front

What ethical issues are raised by the use of Henrietta's cells?

Back

The ethical issues include consent, ownership of biological materials, and the impact on Henrietta's family.

Front

What role did George Gey play in the story of Henrietta Lacks?

Back

George Gey was the scientist who cultured Henrietta's cells and made them widely available for research.

Front

How did Henrietta's socioeconomic status affect her medical care?

Back

Henrietta's socioeconomic status limited her access to quality healthcare and information about her condition.