The Loom of life

by Seon Yong Lee, The Hospital for Sick Children

In some cells, you can see countless thin, thread-like extensions spreading outward, almost like the strands of a loom. Each of these extensions is marked by what scientists call as stem cell marker-a kind of biological tag usually linked to stem cells. But what this marker is actually doing on these stretched-out cell membrane is still a mystery. It might be more than just a label; perhaps it’s a sign that the cell carries a deep reservoir of potential-the ability to one day transform into something entirely different.

Artist statement

My work reflects on thread like cell extensions marked by stem cell markers (CD133), enigmatic structures that may embody latent potential for differentiation.

Tools and techniques used

Confocal Microscopy (LSM700)

Credits

Seon Yong Lee, Postdoc, The Hospital for Sick Children

InterConnections is supported by Illumina