Regensburg 2025 – scientific programme
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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik
BP 17: Poster Session II
BP 17.38: Poster
Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 18:00–20:30, P4
Thermomechanical properties of bat erythrocytes as a blueprint for human hibernation — •Bob Fregin1,2, Doreen Biedenweg1, Oliver Otto1,2, and Gerald Kerth3 — 1Institute of Physics, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany — 2German Center for Cardiovascular Research, Partner Site Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany — 3Applied Zoology and Nature Conservation, Zoological Institute and Museum, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
The ability to sustain efficient blood circulation at low body temperatures is a critical adaptation in hibernating mammals. Here, the mechanical properties of red blood cells (RBCs) could play a crucial role, which we studied for the hibernating common noctule bat, the non-hibernating Egyptian fruit bat, and humans. Using dynamic real-time deformability cytometry RBC elasticity and viscosity were measured at physiologically-relevant time scales (Milliseconds) and temperatures (37∘C, 23∘C, and 10∘C).
Our findings reveal a temperature-driven increase in elasticity and viscosity, which is mainly influenced by membrane properties and not the cytosol. This effect is significantly enhanced in bats. Finally, our data demonstrate that RBC membranes of both bat species display a transition to a viscous-like state at lower temperatures, which is not explained by seasonal variations of environmental factors but seems to originate from physical properties of the cell membrane. Our results suggest RBC thermomechanical properties as a target for future research on human hibernation.
Keywords: Red blood cells; Deformability cytometry; Hibernation; Thermomechanical properties; Microfluidics