CNN’s acclaimed series, Vital Signs, has launched a new episode that explores the remarkable science of hibernation. Premiering on November 29, 2025, the episode highlights how understanding the biology of hibernating animals could lead to significant advancements in human health, including potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment and cardiac care, as well as applications for long-duration space travel.
The episode features Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN’s Chief Medical Correspondent, who embarks on a global investigation into the mechanisms behind hibernation. The journey begins at the University of Utah, where Professor Chris Gregg is researching the genetic connections between hibernation and cancer. Motivated by his own experience with stage 4 male breast cancer, Gregg and his team at the Huntsman Cancer Institute are examining why cancer cell growth halts during hibernation. Their work focuses on understanding the dormancy of cancer cells, with the goal of unlocking new treatment strategies that could prevent cancer from reactivating.
The episode then shifts to Fauna Bio, a biotech firm investigating the extraordinary 13-lined ground squirrel, known for its unique ability to endure multiple “mini heart attacks” throughout its hibernation period without sustaining lasting damage. By leveraging artificial intelligence, Fauna Bio compares genetic data from hibernating animals and humans to identify compounds that may safeguard human heart cells. Their research has already advanced to preclinical safety trials for a drug targeting conditions such as heart failure.
The narrative continues with a visit to the RIKEN Laboratory for Hibernation Biology in Kobe, Japan, where Dr. Genshiro Sunagawa has made significant strides in hibernation research. His team successfully induced a torpor-like state in non-hibernating mice by activating specific neurons in the brain. Dr. Sunagawa envisions a future where humans could safely enter hibernation, which could revolutionize emergency medicine by facilitating safer patient transport and reducing the need for general anaesthesia during surgeries. He also explores the intriguing relationship between hibernation and mental health, suggesting that conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder might share evolutionary roots with hibernation.
In collaboration with NASA, researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have also made headlines by inducing a torpor-like state in human participants for up to 20 hours using an FDA-approved sedative. During this period, participants exhibited reduced metabolic rates while retaining the ability to perform complex tasks, underscoring the potential for practical applications of this research in various fields.
As Vital Signs illuminates, the secrets of hibernating animals offer vital insights that could shape a healthier and more adaptable future for humanity. The episode promises to captivate audiences with its exploration of the profound lessons that nature has to offer in addressing significant challenges in medicine and beyond.
For viewers interested in this compelling exploration, the episode will air at 14:30 and 19:30 HKT on November 29, and again at 02:30 and 12:00 HKT on November 30.
For more information, visit the Vital Signs microsite on CNN’s official platform.
