NASA Is Studying Hibernating Squirrels. Here's How The Research Can Help Astronauts

With the help of this research, scientists can obtain breakthroughs in medically induced hibernation for long term space missions, and find ways of protecting astronauts from cabin fever.

Scientists are studying hibernating Arctic ground squirrels to help astronauts. Arctic ground squirrels are unique because they hibernate for eight to nine months out of the year while slowing their metabolism.

Source : Todd Paris/University of Alaska

NASA is conducting research on hibernating Arctic ground squirrels. The conclusions drawn from this research can help astronauts, according to NASA. Dr Kelly Drew, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, and her students studied hibernating squirrels and their ability to retain muscle and bone mass during extended hibernation. 

The researchers believe that the findings could be applied to astronauts. The professor was awarded funds through the NASA Space Grant. 

How the research can help astronauts

The study of hibernating Arctic ground squirrels can help researchers understand how the human body functions in a weightless environment, NASA said in a statement. Arctic ground squirrels are unique because they hibernate for eight to nine months out of the year while slowing their metabolism. They slow their metabolism so much that their body temperature can drop below freezing without suffering the usual side effects like freezing, muscle loss or loss of bone density during the long winter months. 

The research was conducted in Drew's lab in the Irving Building at the University of Alaska. 

When astronauts stay on the International Space Station (ISS) for long-duration missions, they experience several health complications including bone loss, space anaemia, and changes in bone marrow. The effects on microgravity on blood production and bone health are not felt when the astronauts are in space, but become pronounced after they return to Earth. Therefore, it is very important to monitor astronaut health.

Astronauts who have come back to Earth after staying in space for more than three months may show incomplete bone recovery even after spending one year on Earth since their return, according to a study conducted last year. 

Scientists can use the findings to help future missions. For instance, they can obtain breakthroughs in medically induced hibernation for long term space missions, and find ways of protecting astronauts from cabin fever, ionising radiation, and much more. The findings could also prove effective in preventing muscle and bone loss in zero gravity. 

How the research can help humans on Earth

Drew has also conducted research on hibernation in humans to know about neurocritical care applications, including medications in the process. This means that patients who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack could be placed in medically induced hibernation, wherein the body temperature is kept cooler, to slow their metabolism until they can be transported to a hospital.