HIBERNATING bears have a unique ability to stop their bones from degenerating during long periods of inactivity, a finding that is stimulating the search for new treatments for osteoporosis.
In humans, rapid bone loss is the inevitable consequence of a lack of physical activity from whatever cause, maybe enforced rest or even space flight. Bone production decreases at such times, while the rate at which bone breaks down increases.
Most hibernating animals are similarly affected, but the black bear (Ursus americanus) is an exception. It appears able to maintain its bone mass throughout its three to five- month hibernation.
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