Scientists estimate there are about 37 trillion cells in the human body, but the exact number of distinct cell types remains unclear. To address this, the Human Cell Atlas (HCA) consortium was launched in 2016 to identify and map hundreds of cell types, uncovering their unique molecular identities. This effort aims to revolutionize biology and medicine by providing insights into cell functions, gene expression, and disease mechanisms.

The HCA has already defined over 500 cell types across 30 tissues through groundbreaking studies, with even more detailed drafts underway. These resources are invaluable for advancing treatments, from vaccines and cancer therapies to understanding autoimmune disorders. By collaborating with the HCA, researchers can accelerate the development of diagnostic tools, therapies, and innovative approaches to combat diseases and pathogens on a global scale.