Researchers identify hypothalamus neurons that control hibernation-like behaviors in mice

[Hip]

Two groups of researchers have independently discovered a a population of neurons in the hypothalamus that makes starving mice enter a hibernation-like state, or torpor, to save energy.

Torpor is associated with systemic physiological changes: significant drops in body temperature and suppression of metabolic activity. Torpor is common in nature, but the mechanisms that underlie torpor and hibernation are poorly understood.

It is not known if humans have the same population of neurons, and even if they did, it is not known if stimulating them would have the same effect.

Brain switch lets us control a kind of suspended animation in mice

Researchers identify neurons that control hibernation-like behaviors in mice

Study: A discrete neuronal circuit induces a hibernation-like state in rodents

 

[Booble]

Hmmm......so interesting.

 

[pattismith]

I like research on Torpor, it's really fascinating.

One thing I just read about it is the role of Beta3 adrenergic receptors:

"NE signaling via β3 adrenergic receptors presumably in brown fat is the first neurotransmitter-receptor system identified that is required for normal recovery from torpor."

Interestingly a beta3 adrenergic agonist does exist to treat overactive bladder: MIRABEGRON.
And this drug has already been studied on a mice model of depression

Norepinephrine Controls Both Torpor Initiation and Emergence via Distinct Mechanisms in the Mouse.​

The Role of Beta-Adrenergic Receptors in Depression and Resilience.​

Effects of mirabegron on depression, anxiety, learning and memory in mice.​

Behavioral effects of the β3 adrenoceptor agonist SR58611A: Is it the putative prototype of a new class of antidepressant/anxiolytic drugs?​

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0004038
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9598882/
https://www.scielo.br/j/aabc/a/KZzMTjQf5VPJxptnPKhJzmw/?lang=en
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0014299907007650
https://gemtesa.com/hcp/oab-mechanism-of-action