AUSTRALIAN researchers have discovered molecular signals that can deliver the neurological benefits of exercise in a pill.

The Australian National University (ANU) team, in a study published today, revealed that it has identified molecular signals that occur in the body during exercise.

Riccardo Natoli, ANU’s Clear Vision Research Lab head and study lead author, said he is optimistic that the discovery will allow scientists to “bottle up” the benefits of exercise in a pill.

The supplement, which will be taken like a vitamin, will deliver the molecular message of exercise to people who are not physically capable, including those suffering from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and even slow the progression of the diseases.

“As we age, our ability to move and be able to get benefits of exercise is diminished. (With) conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and age-related macular degeneration, if you lose your vision, it is really difficult to maintain a constant exercise regime,” he told Nine Entertainment newspapers, as quoted by Xinhua.

“We know that as we age, we lose neurons. So if we can allow that molecular message to be sent, then we can basically improve the neurons that survive.

“There is a lot of evidence in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s about memory or motor coordination improving as a consequence of exercise.”

If the pill is successfully developed in the future, researchers said it should not be made available to the general public and instead be reserved exclusively for patients with restricted movement. – Bernama, December 1, 2021.