A new frontier emerges in medical science: a pill capable of imitating the beneficial effects ofphysical exercise: It’s the pill SLU-PP-332, a cutting-edge compound promising for those seeking alternatives to traditional physical activity. According to a press release from American Chemical Societythe mixture SLU-PP-332 offers hope for those who want the benefits of physical activity but are limited by health conditions or disabilities. Exercise is essential, but there are times when an alternative is needed, he points out East Elgendy, head of the research. Preliminary results show efficacy and minimal side effects in rodent studies. But before approaching human trials, further research will be needed to ensure its safety.
Applications and potential benefits
In addition to supporting those who cannot exercise, SLU-PP-332 could strengthen fitness programs and integrate with obesity treatments. Research has highlighted how this compound can increase muscle fibers resistant to fatigue and improve overall endurance, envisioning a future in which exercise could become more accessible and personalized.
The team compared the potency of SLU-PP-332 with that of the new molecules by examining the RNA (measure of gene expression) of approximately 15,000 genes in rat heart muscle cells. The new compounds caused a greater increase in the presence of RNA, suggesting that they more potently simulate the effects of physical exercise. Research using SLU-PP-332 suggests that targeting estrogen-related receptors could be useful against specific diseases. In detail, animal studies with this preliminary compound indicate that it may have a benefit for obesity, heart failure or decline in kidney function with age. The updated research results suggest that the new molecules could have similar effects.
Counteract the harmful processes of Alzheimer’s
The activity of the target receptors under the lens of the experts also appears to counteract harmful processes that occur in the brains of patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative disorders. Although the compound SLU-PP-332 cannot pass into the brain, some new ones have been developed to do so. “In all these conditions, Err receptors play an important role,” remarks Elgendy. “If we had a compound capable of activating them effectively, many beneficial effects could be generated.” The team now hopes to test the new compounds in animal models through Pelagos Pharmaceuticals, a startup co-founded by the experts, who are also examining the possibility of developing the compounds as potential treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.
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