Chapter 11, Problem 1DAA

HeLa Cells Are a Genetic Mess HeLa cells can vary in chromosome number. Defects in proteins that orchestrate cell division result in descendant cells with too many or too few chromosomes, an outcome that is one of the ha1lmarks of cancer cells. The panel of chromosomes in FIGURE 11.9, originally published in 1989, shows all of the chromosomes in a single metaphase HeLa cell.

FIGURE 11.9 Karyotype of HeLa showing chromosomes in one cell.

What is the chromosome number of this HeLa cell?

Summary Introduction

To determine:  The number of chromosomes in the HeLa cell.

Concept introduction: HeLa cell is the oldest and most commonly used cell line that was derived from the cervical cancer cells. HeLa cells differ from the normal cells in many ways. These cells have the ability to contaminate other cell lines. These cells have furthered the understanding of cancer, HIV, and the cells in general. It is still used widely to grow viruses and to test anti-tumor medicines.

Answer to Problem 1DAA

There are a total of 82 chromosomes in the HeLa cell.

Explanation of Solution

Every normal human cell contains a total of 46 chromosomes. The HeLa cells have extra 36 chromosomes compared to the normal human body cell. Therefore, they carry a total of 82 chromosomes in each cell.

Conclusion

Every HeLa cell carries 82 chromosomes in each cell.