Scientists have identified key regulators that help control the metabolisms of hibernators and believe these same genes may hold untapped benefits for humans. Researchers found that hibernating mammals use specific DNA to adjust their metabolism as they enter a low-energy state, and humans carry this same DNA.
The study’s senior author, Christopher Gregg, suggests that understanding how hibernators control their metabolism could help treat medical conditions like type 2 diabetes. Hibernation offers unique “biometrically important superpowers” that may be beneficial for humans.
In the study, scientists pinpointed key levers that control genes related to hibernation and tested them in lab mice using CRISPR gene-editing technology. The researchers found that deleting certain genes affected the mice’s weight gain, metabolic rates, and body temperatures.
While the findings are promising, the authors acknowledge that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of these genetic changes on humans. However, Gregg envisions a potential future where humans can tweak their “hibernation hub genes” with drugs to unlock similar benefits without actually hibernating.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/genetics/humans-may-have-untapped-superpowers-from-genes-related-to-hibernation-scientists-claim