Hibernation is a remarkable survival strategy that allows animals to endure cold and food shortages by dramatically lowering their metabolic rate and body temperature, thus conserving energy and surviving long periods of scarcity. Only certain mammals can hibernate; most, including humans, cannot tolerate such extreme physiological changes.

Uncovering the mechanisms of this phenomenon could lead to advances in organ preservation, hypothermia treatment, and new therapies for seasonal affective disorder. However, the underlying principles of hibernation remain deeply mysterious.

The project “Interdisciplinary Basic Research on the Mechanisms of Hibernation and Their Societal Applications” brings together experts at Hokkaido University to elucidate the biological mechanisms of this survival strategy and explore its potential applications for society.

We aim to understand, at the genetic level, the molecular basis of hypothermia tolerance and physiological adaptations that enable hibernation, using small hibernating mammals as model organisms. By studying how these animals tolerate low body temperatures and prepare for hibernation, we seek to contribute to advances in organ transplantation, emergency medicine, and the understanding of seasonal affective disorder.

Research on large hibernators, such as brown bears, focuses on how they can hibernate for months without severe muscle atrophy or bone loss. Insights from these studies may inspire strategies to prevent declines in quality of life (QOL) associated with immobility, aging, or poor winter adaptation.

Through this series of studies, we aim to translate hibernation — the ultimate survival strategy in nature — into innovations that enhance human well-being and save lives.

Project Members