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Unique Adaptations may Explain Bats' Resistance to Viruses

Bats are really effective at dumping heat to keep their body temperatures fairly normal.

Aired 09/15/2021

NOVA

Unique Adaptations may Explain Bats' Resistance to Viruses

Clip: Season 48 Episode 10 | 3m 2sVideo has Closed Captions

Bats are really effective at dumping heat to keep their body temperatures fairly normal.

The heartbeats of some species of flying bat can reach 1,066 beats per minute. Could this level of activity — unrivaled by any other mammal — help explain bat super immunity?

Aired 09/15/2021

National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and PBS viewers.

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Bat Superpowers Preview

Video has Closed Captions

Could the source of the deadliest viruses hold the secret to a healthier and longer life? (30s)

Why are Bats Tolerant of the Diseases They Carry?

Video has Closed Captions

Viruses circulate so well within bat colonies — could they hold secrets to better health? (2m 34s)

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National Corporate funding for NOVA is provided by Carlisle Companies. Major funding for NOVA is provided by the NOVA Science Trust, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and PBS viewers.

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