Scientists have discovered that it is possible to breathe through your bum! Yes, you read that right!
Researchers based in Japan and the United States have determined that certain mammals, like pigs, rats and mice can do this, too. Yep, that’s right, mammals can breathe out of their bums.
And this, actually, opens the door for a new type of treatment for human patients with respiratory conditions.
Photo via Daily Star
Scientists at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) have shown that oxygen can be delivered into the bloodstreams of mice, rats, and pigs through their anuses. The technique, known as enteral ventilation may sound a little odd, but it could one day be used to support the oxygen supply of human patients with severe respiratory conditions.
Weird, but kind of cool, too!
According to Science Focus, researchers deprived the animals of oxygen and then administered oxygen enemas to them, either in gas form or via perfluorocarbons of PFCs, liquids that can absorb large amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide and are often used as a blood substitute or assist the ventilation of premature babies.
In both cases, oxygen levels in the animals’ blood increased, enabling them to survive for longer periods.
The team also found increased degrees of oxygenation in the animals’ cells and no sign of harmful effects despite small amounts of PFC being absorbed along with the oxygen.
Woah, the more we know…
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
