Despite the prolonged immobility of bears during hibernation, they do not form blood clots.
According to scientists in the journal Science, the reason lies in the protein HSP47, which shows significant seasonal fluctuations: its level in bears is high in summer and virtually absent in winter.
Based on previous studies, researchers concluded that HSP47 facilitates the binding of platelets to leukocytes, which is necessary for fighting infections. Thus, by reducing the level of this protein during hibernation, bears prevent the formation of blood clots.
In an experiment conducted on humans, participants were asked to remain on bed rest for 27 days, which confirmed similar behavior of HSP47. This discovery may help scientists determine who is most at risk for thrombosis, as well as open new opportunities for preventive treatment of individuals with a high likelihood of clot formation.
