Hibernation, a State of Natural Tolerance to Profound Reduction in Organ Blood Flow and Oxygen Delivery Capacity
Abstract
Hibernation represents a seasonal physiological adaptation, which allows conservation of energy and down-regulation of cellular functions. Hibernating animals exhibit multiple biological alterations which contribute to their dramatic ability to tolerate the ischaemic conditions associated with reduced rates of respiration and blood flow while in the hibernating state. There is accumulating evidence that mammalian hibernation involves a controlled suppression of interactive physiological responses that preserves homeostatic balance. Mammalian hibernation is a regulated state of torpor with a profound suppression of energy requirements that has evolved in at least six mammalian orders as a strategy to cope with seasonal cold and shortages of food and water (Wang, 1988). A hibernation bout may last up to several weeks in some mammals and consists of entry into, maintenance of, and arousal from hibernation. Arousal is maintained for a few hours to a few days before the animal initiates another bout of hibernation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA405751
Entities
People
- Donna G. Sieckmann
- Erik Z. Yu
- John M. Hallenbeck
- Kai Frerichs
- Richard M. Mccarron
Organizations
- Naval Medical Research Center