On 10 November 2025, 20 students from classes X, XI and XII accompanied by their Biology teacher, Ms Suman Aswal, attended a fascinating Popular Science Lecture at the National Science Centre. The session focused on the theme, 'Stem Cells' and introduced students to the remarkable advances and possibilities that stem cell research holds for the future of Biology and medicine.
The lecture was delivered by Dr Sujata Mohanty, Professor, Director of the Stem Cell Facility at AIIMS Delhi and an accomplished researcher with over 340 scientific publications to her credit.
Dr Mohanty opened her session by reflecting on two global icons, Jane Goodall and Marie Curie, whom she regards as her inspiration. Their groundbreaking work and unwavering dedication, she shared, continue to inspire her own journey in the biomedical sciences.
She went on to explain the significance of stem cells, highlighting their extraordinary regenerative abilities and their potential in developing innovative medical treatments. Drawing attention to rising health concerns such as cancer, Parkinson’s Disease, Diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, Dr Mohanty noted that many of these conditions arise from the body’s limited capacity to repair itself. She emphasised that the long-term solution to such degenerative diseases may lie not merely in conventional medicine, but in cellular therapy powered by stem cells.
The students were introduced to the sophisticated functioning of stem cells — how they respond to chemical and hormonal cues and how organelles like mitochondria, cytokines and exosomes help them carry out complex repair processes in the human body. Dr Mohanty also illustrated real-world applications of stem cell therapy, sharing successful experiences in treating corneal clouding through limbal cell grafting and vitiligo through skin grafting.
A particularly exciting part of the lecture was the discussion on future prospects, especially the role of stem cells in 3D bioprinting. Dr Mohanty explained how ongoing research could eventually make it possible to recreate fully functional organs, revolutionising the field of transplant medicine.
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where students posed insightful questions and received enriching explanations from Dr Mohanty.
The visit proved to be an inspiring and eye-opening experience, providing students with a deeper appreciation of cutting-edge scientific research and its transformative potential. It was truly a memorable opportunity to learn from a distinguished expert and explore the frontiers of modern Biology.
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