Understanding how hibernation can improve metabolism and health.

Mammalian Hibernation Research- A Path Towards a Center for Transformative Research in Metabolism

NIH-funded research University of Alaska Fairbanks · NIH-10659060

This study is looking at how animals hibernate to find new ways to help people with health issues like obesity and diabetes, and it's being done at the University of Alaska with a team of researchers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Fairbanks, United States)
Project IDNIH-10659060 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the physiological changes that occur during mammalian hibernation, aiming to uncover mechanisms that could be applied to human health. The project is based at the University of Alaska's Institute of Arctic Biology and involves training new and experienced researchers in this field. By studying hibernation, the research seeks to address metabolic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues. The findings could lead to innovative treatments that enhance metabolic health in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults and seniors who are at risk for metabolic diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing metabolic issues or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for metabolic diseases, improving health outcomes for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: While hibernation research is a relatively novel field, there have been promising findings in related studies that suggest potential breakthroughs in understanding metabolism.

Where this research is happening

Fairbanks, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.