News from the world of medicine
Scientists have developed a drug that simulates physical exercise for weight loss and muscle preservation
The fight against obesity and related metabolic diseases is taking on a new direction thanks to the development of the drug SLU-PP-332 by researchers from the University of Florida. This compound, which mimics the metabolic and muscular benefits of exercise, has been shown to significantly reduce the amount of body fat in mice while maintaining muscle mass. This gives new hope in the treatment of obesity-related diseases aimed at improving metabolic health and preventing complications. Due to the growing prevalence of obesity worldwide — millions of people, some of whom suffer from serious complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases - the question of finding effective medical solutions is more acute than ever. It was on this basis that the experimental drug SLU-PP-332 was developed, simulating the beneficial effect of physical exercise on metabolism. Obtained as a result of in-depth research conducted at the University of Florida, it opens up new perspectives in the treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases. The first tests on mice showed weight loss and increased endurance without changing appetite and physical activity levels, while maintaining an increase/preservation of muscle mass. The study was published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. What is the mechanism of action of this miracle remedy? SLU-PP-332 belongs to a class of molecules known as "exercise mimetics" that provide some of the benefits of exercise without the need to increase physical activity. Its action is based on the effect on specific receptors in the body, in particular on estrogen-related receptors (ERR). These receptors play an important role in the activation of metabolic pathways that are usually stimulated by physical activity, which leads to an increase in energy consumption and the oxidation of fatty acids. Fatty acid oxidation is an important metabolic process during which fatty acids are broken down to produce energy.
Professor Thomas Berry of the University of Florida, the lead author of the study, explains in a press release: "This compound, in fact, requires the same changes from skeletal muscles that are observed during endurance training." By activating these metabolic pathways, SLU-PP-332 reduces the accumulation of fat in the body and promotes an increase in lean muscle mass even in the absence of changes in diet or physical activity level. This was demonstrated in studies on mice, where those receiving the drug had a significant reduction in the amount of body fat and improved sensitivity to insulin, a key factor in regulating blood sugar levels.
