By identifying similarities between dwarf lemurs and other hibernating animals, researchers may one day be able to induce hibernation-like states in humans by temporarily reducing heart rate and brain activity.
This could buy time for patients who have suffered head trauma or heart attacks, extend the shelf life of transplant organs, or even open the door to long-distance space travel.
Madagascan fat-tailed dwarf lemurs spend up to seven months each year in torpor, a physiological state where body temperature stops and metabolism slows down.
In torpor, these lemurs can drop their heart rate from 120 beats per minute to a mere 6, and breathing slows to a crawl.
Read more at Duke University