Could a medicine activate some of the same biological pathways as exercise? A study published in The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics brings that possibility closer to exploration.

Researchers found that SLU-PP-915 improved running endurance in mice, including when administered orally. The compound activates estrogen-related receptors—regulators of cellular energy production and muscle adaptation. Its oral activity represents an advance over the earlier compound SLU-PP-332.

The study also highlights a fascinating connection with mitochondria, the structures that help power our cells. SLU-PP-915 activated exercise-responsive gene Ddit4, and combining it with exercise further increased Ddit4 and mitochondrial gene expression. These findings suggest a potential way to support selected adaptations to training. Read the study abstract.

The authors identify obesity, diabetes, heart failure, and muscle-wasting conditions as possible directions for future investigation. These remain research possibilities: this mouse study does not establish effectiveness or safety in humans, or demonstrate a replacement for exercise.

The exciting prospect is a new route toward understanding—and potentially treating—conditions involving impaired energy metabolism and muscle function.