Can Hela Cells Live Forever

As far as anyone can tell, these so-called HeLa cells are immortal. Given the proper conditions, cell biologists say, the cells will simply go on growing and replicating forever. … Indeed, some observers are even suggesting that humans–like the HeLa cells–might one day conquer death itself.

Why do HeLa cells divide indefinitely?

For one, HeLa cells are prolific dividers. … Normally, it is the gradual depletion of telomeres — a repetitive strand of DNA on the ends of the chromosomes — that stops cells from dividing indefinitely. But active telomerase rebuilds telomeres cut during division, allowing for indefinite proliferation.

Are there other immortal cells besides HeLa?

There are various immortal cell lines. Some of them are normal cell lines (e.g. derived from stem cells). Other immortalised cell lines are the in vitro equivalent of cancerous cells. … The origins of some immortal cell lines, for example HeLa human cells, are from naturally occurring cancers.