The "miracle pill" that gives the benefits of physical exercise without lifting a finger is becoming a reality
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Researchers from the University of Washington in St. Louis, led by Bahaa Elgendy, are getting closer to this reality by developing a new class of drugs. These "exercise mimetics" could soon completely change the way we maintain our muscle mass and overall health.
These drugs target cellular switches normally activated by physical activity, promoting muscle regeneration and stimulating mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. They could be especially beneficial for elderly people, those suffering from muscle disorders, or those losing muscle mass due to medical treatments.
The research began by identifying molecules capable of activating receptors known as estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), which play a crucial role in tissues with a high energy demand such as skeletal muscles, the heart, and the brain. The efforts led to the creation of a molecule, SLU-PP-332, that powerfully activates these receptors, especially the alpha type found in the brain and skeletal muscles.
This molecule has demonstrated its capacity to increase skeletal muscle metabolism in the lab and to improve running endurance in mice, while also increasing their number of fatigue-resistant muscle fibers. The research continues to develop even more effective and specific compounds, minimizing the risk of adverse effects by precisely targeting the beneficial effects of exercise.
Although promising, this avenue of research is still in its early stages. Before considering human trials, scientists must ensure the efficacy and safety of these molecules in animals. The path to commercializing these drugs is still long, but the prospects they open for treating diseases such as heart failure, obesity, renal dysfunction, and potentially neurodegenerative disorders are vast.
This research represents hope for those who are unable to exercise due to physical barriers, but it also reminds us of the insurmountable importance of physical activity for health. Exercise mimetics will never fully replace the complex and varied effects of exercise on our bodies and well-being.