The Plausibility of Utilizing Hibernation to Reduce Energetic Needs in Humans

Derek H. Bertrams* and Roberta Leonardi

Department of Biochemistry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Presentation Category: Biological & Biochemical Sciences (Poster Presentation #101)

Student’s Major: Biochemistry

Hibernation is a state that allows select animals to survive harsh conditions like lack of food and harsh climate. Many individual organs, such as the heart, liver, kidney, and brain, have been analyzed for gene expression and metabolite signatures in hibernating animals. However, a broad mechanism of initiation of hibernation has not been elucidated. In this research paper, we detail what is known about hibernation at the current time and what still needs further investigation. The focus of this research paper is to evaluate the plausibility of using hibernation in humans and identify a potential cause of hibernation initiation. The review was completed using various databases and research articles. The hypothalamus is a prime driver of the hibernation state and plays a central role in the regulation of internal temperature, metabolism, and circadian rhythm. In our research, we tried to determine the relative contribution of a decrease in metabolism versus a decrease in temperature as causes of hibernation. Since metabolism controls non-shivering thermogenesis, this is a potential cause of the decrease in body temperature seen in hibernation initiation. To test if decrease in metabolic function is a cause of the hibernate state, we would need to prevent the shivering response in a known non-hibernating animal. This would allow us to determine if the decrease in metabolism could provide a hibernation state in non-hibernating animals. If hibernation in humans is possible, then this could greatly impact the medical and astrobiology fields.

Funding: NIH grant R35GM119528

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: Other, Honors Excel Program