Scientists at the ACS Spring 2024 meeting have revealed a groundbreaking discovery that could change the way we think about exercise and physical health. The research team has developed a pill that mimics the effects of exercise, offering some of the same benefits without the need for physical activity.
The pill, which has been named SLU-PP-332, activates specialized proteins known as estrogen-related receptors (ERR) in rodent cells. This activation leads to metabolic changes associated with exercise, such as improved muscle cell growth, metabolism, and muscle performance. In experiments with mice, the compound has been shown to increase the presence of RNA in muscle cells, suggesting a potent simulation of the effects of physical exercise.
According to lead researcher Bahaa Elgendy, the pill could be a game-changer for individuals suffering from muscle atrophy, heart failure, neurodegenerative diseases, or other conditions that prevent regular physical activity. While Elgendy emphasizes that exercise is still important on all levels, he believes that there are many cases where a replacement is needed.
The researchers are now working on developing new compounds that are even more potent than SLU-PP-332. These compounds have shown promising results in animal studies and could potentially be used to treat conditions such as obesity, heart failure, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s.
In addition to its potential benefits for physical health, the pill may also have positive effects on the brain. Researchers have found that the activity of target receptors in the pill could counteract harmful processes in the brains of patients with neurodegenerative disorders. Plans are underway to further test the new compounds in animal models and potentially develop them into treatments for these conditions.
While the pill may not be a complete replacement for exercise, it could offer a new way to improve and protect health for those unable to engage in regular physical activity. The research team’s findings have opened up exciting possibilities for the future of medicine and could lead to a new era of treatment for a variety of health conditions.