Cool nerve cells help mice beat heat

Scientists identify sensors in part of hypothalamus key to regulating body temperature

IR image of mouse

HEAT DUMP  In an effort to lower its body temperature, a mouse’s tail heats up (right) half an hour after a certain group of nerve cells are turned on (before, shown left). 

Hong Wang and J. Siemens

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Scientists have identified the “refrigerator” nerve cells that hum along in the brains of mice and keep the body cool.