How Hibernation Could Redefine Space Travel and Medicine

Animals can hibernate, slowing down most metabolic functions — heart rate, blood flow, brain activity, and body temperature — then waking as if nothing happened. Humans have never done this, but what if they could? Could hibernation extend life or even save it?  Dr. Sanjay Gupta explores global research into the molecular mechanics of hibernation and how these abilities might one day help fight cancer, prevent heart disease, treat depression, and even enable travel to Mars.

This episode was produced by Amanda Sealy

Medical writer: Andrea Kane

Showrunner: Amanda Sealy 

Senior Producer: Dan Bloom

Technical Director: Dan Dzula

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