Understanding how some animals can safely lower their body temperature
Molecular and cellular basis of reversible hypothermia
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10994605
This study is looking at how some animals can safely lower their body temperature, like hibernating squirrels, to find out how this works in their brains, which could help doctors find new ways to safely cool down patients in emergencies.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10994605 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind reversible hypothermia, a process where certain animals can significantly lower their body temperature without harm. By studying the brain's thermoregulation in hibernating animals like the thirteen-lined ground squirrel and comparing it to non-hibernating mice, the researchers aim to uncover the cellular and molecular principles that allow for this adaptation. The findings could lead to new pharmacological methods to safely induce and control hypothermia in humans, potentially benefiting patients in critical care settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who may benefit from therapeutic hypothermia, such as those experiencing cardiac arrest or severe trauma.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing conditions that could benefit from hypothermia, such as stable chronic illnesses, may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that allow for safe and controlled hypothermia in medical emergencies.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding hibernation and hypothermia, but this specific approach using a comparative model is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GRACHEVA, ELENA — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: GRACHEVA, ELENA
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.