Craig Heller

Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University

Craig Heller, the former Lorry Lokey/Business Wire Professor of Biological Sciences at Stanford University, is a renowned expert in the fields of physiology and neurobiology, focusing on temperature regulation, hibernation, sleep, circadian rhythms, and learning and memory.

His research journey began with studying the mammalian thermostat in hibernators, which led to the conclusion that hibernation is an evolutionary extension of sleep, particularly of NREM sleep, where body temperature is regulated at a lower level. He discovered the critical role of the circadian system in timing sleep and hibernation, with activity of the circadian system bringing animals out of hibernation for periodic arousals.

Heller's studies on EEG of hibernators revealed significant slow wave activity following hibernation bouts, indicating a loss of synapses in the cortex during hibernation. This neuronal structure loss was found to be reversible within hours following arousal. His work also highlighted the role of adenosine in the sleep response after prolonged wakefulness and the homeostatic relationship between REM and NREM sleep.

Apart from his work on hibernation and sleep, Heller delved into human temperature regulation, emphasizing the significance of glabrous skin as a major heat loss effector in mammals. He developed heat exchange technology enhancing heat transfer across the glabrous skin, aiding in rapid rewarming of hypothermic individuals and cooling hyperthermic ones. This technology has shown promising results in extending endurance, work capacity, and conditioning by extracting heat during exercise.

Recent studies by Heller have focused on exploring the interplay of sleep, circadian rhythms, and learning and memory, specifically addressing learning disabilities in Down syndrome (DS) and identifying a potential pharmacological intervention for mitigation.

Craig Heller holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and a PhD in Biology, General from Yale University, as well as a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology, General from Ursinus College.