Researchers at the University of Utah have discovered genetic “superpowers” in hibernating mammals that could lead to new treatments for type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and other disorders. The study found that humans share similar genetic regions with hibernators, which function as control switches for adapting to extreme physiological changes.
During hibernation, mammals undergo a state of torpor, or physiological dormancy, allowing them to survive months without food and water. However, this comes at great cost, including muscle deterioration, protein buildup in the brain, and insulin resistance. Hibernating mammals have evolved remarkable adaptations to reverse these effects, and researchers believe that humans may also carry similar genetic mechanisms.
The study identified specific regions of non-coding DNA that act as “master switches” for controlling gene responses to starvation and refeeding. These master switches are regulators that turn genes on or off in specific cells at specific times, and their discovery could lead to new treatments for metabolic disorders.
The researchers also found that these master switches disproportionately affect key “hub genes” that regulate fasting-induced changes to gene activity. By mimicking the genetic advantages of hibernators, scientists may be able to develop drugs that boost neuroprotection in Alzheimer’s patients or reverse insulin resistance in type 2 diabetics.
The discovery is exciting, as it suggests that humans already have the genetic framework for adapting to extreme physiological changes. The researchers plan to use their findings to develop new treatments and therapies for various diseases.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/hibernations-hidden-healing-superpowers-could-be-locked-in-our-dna-2000637306