Bears are known for their long winter hibernation during which they remain inactive for several months without eating, drinking or exercising. Now, a recent study suggests that hibernating bears may hold the key to preventing deadly blood clots in humans. Researchers have discovered that these animals have a unique ability to suppress blood clotting during hibernation, which could help scientists develop new treatments for thrombosis – a condition that kills thousands of people every year. In this article, we’ll explore how the study was conducted and what it could mean for the future of medicine.
A recent study published in Science has revealed that the secret to reducing dangerous blood clots in humans may lie in hibernating bears. The research focuses on how the large mammal can remain dormant for extended periods without developing blood clots. Scientists found that bears’ heat shock protein 47 (HSP47), which aids in cell recovery from stress, is lowered during hibernation, thus preventing blood clots from forming. Immobility, such as sitting down on a long-haul flight, can increase the risk of developing blood clots, which can happen anywhere in the body, but deep vein thrombosis typically starts in the lower leg or thigh. If a clot travels to the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs or other limbs, it can trigger a heart attack or stroke, damage the body’s organs, or even cause death.
To collect the data for this study, researchers took blood samples from 13 free-ranging brown bears with an average age of 2½ years between February and March 2019 and 2022 in central Sweden. They took blood samples again during their “active months” over the summer between June 2019 and 2022. The study found that “the interaction between the blood platelets and inflammatory cells of the immune system is slowed down” in hibernating bears, as cardiologist and researcher Dr. Tobias Petzold said in a press release. “That explains the absence of venous thrombosis,” he continued. “HSP47 alone is able to activate the inflammatory cells.” The study noted that if HSP47 could be blocked in immobile people, it could reduce the risk of blood clots. The hope is that this research paves the way for a drug that would prevent blood clots.
In conclusion, the study has shed light on the potential benefits of understanding the mechanisms that hibernating bears use to prevent blood clots. The research could improve people’s lives by reducing their risk of dangerous blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes, organ damage, or death. Further research on the mechanisms by which HSP47 works in preventing blood clots can lead to the development of drugs that will prevent such conditions from occurring.
In conclusion, hibernating bears may seem like a seasonal fascination to some but it turns out that these majestic creatures hold secrets that could unlock new therapies for preventing deadly blood clots. The discovery of these uniquely adaptive mechanisms only further proves the splendid beauty and complexity of nature. As scientists continue to study and unravel the mysteries of hibernation, we can only hope that their findings can be applied to improve human health and save lives.
