Unlocking Hibernation’s Hidden Code

What if humans could borrow some superpowers from hibernating animals? New research from the U suggests that the genetic keys to surviving months without food, reversing neurodegeneration, and bouncing back from conditions similar to diabetes and stroke may already exist in our DNA.

Two studies published in Science reveal that a gene cluster called the “fat mass and obesity” (FTO) locus plays a crucial role in hibernators’ remarkable abilities. Turns out humans have these genes too. “What’s striking about this region is that it is the strongest genetic risk factor for human obesity,” says Chris Gregg, a Benning Presidential Endowed Chair and professor in neurobiology, anatomy, and human genetics at University of Utah Health, and senior author on the studies. 

The research team found that specific DNA regions near the FTO locus act like orchestra conductors, adjusting the activity of hundreds of genes simultaneously. Researchers speculate that hibernators use these regions to fine-tune metabolism—packing on pounds before winter, then slowly burning fat reserves during hibernation.

When researchers mutated these hibernator-specific regions in mice, they observed changes in weight, metabolism, and body temperature regulation. The findings suggest that humans might already possess the genetic framework for hibernator-like resilience. “We just need to identify the control switches for these hibernator traits,” says Susan Steinwand, research scientist in neurobiology and anatomy at U of U Health in the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine and first author on one study.

Understanding these mechanisms could lead to treatments for metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and age-related diseases—essentially awakening superpowers hidden within human DNA.