Increased complement component C3 expression in the bone marrow of torpid 13-lined ground squirrels is not a mechanism for increased immunological protection during torpor

Abstract

Thirteen-lined ground squirrels enter torpor during winter months, characterized by decreased metabolism and decreased immune function. During torpor white blood cells almost completely disappeared from circulation, and are able to return to normal levels within 2 hours of arousal. It has been recently discovered that the transcription of numerous proteins within the complement system are upregulated in the bone marrow during torpor. The complement system is part of the innate immune system and aids in killing infectious bacteria and viruses.