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Hibernation helps animals survive periods of harsh conditions. Studying this behavior could uncover clues to treating obesity, preserving organs, and more in humans. Originally written in the Scientist by Stephanie DeMarco, PhD, on Nov 28, 2025  Hibernating animals go into a state of torpor wherein they lower their metabolic rate and internal temperature. Image credit:© iStock.com, Edwin_Butter As leaves fall off the trees and temperatures grow bitingly cold, many animals prepare to hibernate for the winter. During this period, animals enter a state of torpor wherein they reduce their metabolic activity and lower their body temperature , which helps them conserve energy . Organisms can also enter other kinds of dormancy or adaptations to stressful environments that resemble hibernation. While studying these behaviors can teach scientists more about the unique biology of these animals , it can also inform human health and disease . These include neurodegeneration mechanisms...

Originally published by Kumamoto University on November 1, 2024 T he trigger for neurodegeneration is the assembly of G4 structures driven by increased intracellular calcium ions (Ca2+) due to cellular stress. α -Synuclein binds directly to G4, shifting into an aggregate-prone structure that employs G4 as a scaffold to form harmful clusters. Therefore, inhibiting G4 assembly can prevent α -synuclein aggregation, helping to protect against neuronal function loss. Credit: Cell (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.09.037 A team of researchers at Kumamoto University has uncovered a mechanism in the f ormation of harmful protein aggregates that lead to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. The team, led by Professor Norifumi Shioda and Associate Professor Yasushi Yabuki, identified for the first time that unique RNA structures called G-quadruplexes (G4s) play a central role in promoting the aggregation of α -synuclein , a protein associated with neurodegen...