Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have discovered a potential barrier that could prevent people from falling into a state of frozen sleep. Results of the study published In innovation magazine.
Researchers conducted an experiment on hypothermia (lowering body temperature below what is needed to maintain normal metabolism and functioning) in primates. The team activated certain neurons in the monkeys’ brains, causing a slight drop in body temperature and a strong defensive response.
“The temperature dropped by only 1 degree, and the monkeys began to move more actively, their hearts were beating much faster, they were shaking. All this was a defensive response – the body was trying to warm up. Moreover, similar experiments on mice produced a reduction in body temperature of about 10 degrees without any side effects. If people undergo this type of artificial hibernation, they are likely to experience a similar reaction,” the scientists said.
Hibernation allows mammals to survive in adverse conditions. In this case, their metabolism almost stops, their body temperature drops, some organs stop, their hearts barely beat, their muscles and bones rest but remain strong. Putting people in a state of suspended animation can help them wait for an organ transplant, for example.
The team now plans to examine how lower body temperature might affect primate cognition.