HeLa at the Gurdon

Research at the Gurdon Institute has utilised the power and versatility of HeLa cells in a variety of ways.

Work in the Jackson Lab has characterized the behavior of HeLa cells in nanotubes designed to simulate capillaries, providing a more detailed molecular understanding of cancer cell division which could lead to anti-metastatic therapies [1]. The Jackson Lab has also used HeLa cells to elucidate mechanisms of the cellular DNA damage response, a contributing factor in cancer initiation and progression [2].

Meanwhile, members of the Gallop Lab have elucidated mechanisms by which HeLa cells use actin, a protein involved in controlling cell shape and movement. Importantly, this finding could be applied to treat oculocerebrorenal syndrome of Lowe [3]. 

Past research at the Gurdon Institute has also investigated the regulation of cell cycle and growth in HeLa cells, giving rise to potential therapies that target the molecular controls of cancer cell division [4].

From uncovering mechanisms of the DNA damage response to developing cancer therapies, HeLa cells are a valuable tool for research at the Institute and beyond.

[1] Wang X, Schmidt CK, et al. (2016) ACS Nano

[2] Chapman RJ and Jackson S, (2008) EMBO Rep

[3] Daste F, Walrant A, et al. (2017) J Cell Biol

[4] Atkin J, Halova L, et al. (2014) J Cell Sci

With thanks to Tara Srinivas (Brand Lab, Gurdon Institute)