Naked Mole Rats are Resistant to Ischemia, Such as Occurs Following a Heart Attack – Fight Aging!

Naked mole-rats have evolved extraordinary adaptations to their underground, low-oxygen environment, leading to their resistance to ischemia and longevity. They can tolerate extreme hypoxia and anoxia, spend a significant amount of time in challenging atmospheric conditions, and have unique metabolic and genetic traits. Their hearts show resistance to reduced oxygen levels and ischemia-reperfusion injury, with elevated glycogen levels enabling glycolytic ATP generation during cardiac ischemia. These evolutionary traits reflect their adaptation to a hypoxic and eusocial lifestyle, contributing to their longevity and health span. The study of naked mole-rats may hold valuable insights for human medicine, particularly in understanding and treating conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.