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Aarhus University’s breakthrough offers hope for those unable to maintain rigorous exercise routines
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a groundbreaking molecule, LaKe, that replicates the metabolic benefits of exercise and fasting, potentially revolutionizing how we approach physical fitness and metabolic health. This innovation holds particular promise for individuals unable to sustain strenuous exercise or strict dietary regimens, and it could even offer therapeutic benefits for brain-related conditions like Parkinson’s and dementia.
Exercise and Fasting in a Single Molecule
Exercise and fasting are well-known for their wide-ranging health benefits, from boosting cardiovascular function to lowering blood fat levels. These benefits occur because of rising levels of lactate (a byproduct of intense exercise) and ketones (produced during fasting), which serve as powerful energy sources for cells. Now, researchers from Aarhus University have synthesized a molecule that mimics this metabolic response, potentially offering these benefits without the need for intense physical exertion.
“We’ve developed a molecule that can mimic the body’s natural metabolic response to strenuous exercise and fasting,” said Professor Thomas Poulsen from Aarhus University’s Department of Chemistry. “In practice, the molecule brings the body into a state equivalent to running 10 kilometers at high speed on an empty stomach.”
LaKe induces a metabolic state where blood lactate and ketone levels rise, triggering health benefits such as a reduction in free fatty acids and the production of appetite-suppressing hormones. These effects could be particularly valuable for individuals at risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
From Research to Clinical Potential
Developed over three years of research collaboration between experts in chemistry, metabolism, and clinical medicine, the LaKe molecule represents a fusion of lactate and ketones without the harmful byproducts typically associated with these compounds, such as acid and salt.
“We already knew from previous studies that lactate and ketones have beneficial effects,” said Poulsen. “The innovation here is that we’ve created a molecule that allows us to control the amounts of these substances in a safe and effective manner.”
The LaKe molecule has been tested in preclinical trials on rats, and early results have shown promise. Human clinical trials are currently underway at Aarhus University Hospital, with the researchers hoping that LaKe could soon be developed into an advanced nutritional supplement.
Potential Treatment for Brain Disorders
Beyond its potential to help those struggling with exercise and diet, LaKe could offer significant benefits for individuals with brain-related conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia. These diseases are often associated with reduced energy levels in the brain, which can impair cognitive function. According to Poulsen, lactate has the ability to act as an alternative energy source for the brain when glucose levels are low, a phenomenon that has already been explored in concussion patients.
“Patients who cannot perform strenuous exercise will benefit greatly from a drug that can boost these energy levels,” said Poulsen.
A New Era in Nutritional Supplements
If LaKe’s effects in humans match its preclinical promise, the molecule could become a game-changing tool for improving health and well-being, especially for individuals with physical limitations or chronic conditions. By artificially inducing the metabolic benefits of exercise and fasting, LaKe offers a glimpse into a future where the need for strict diet and exercise may be minimized for those who struggle to maintain them.
The research, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, highlights the potential for LaKe to be developed into a widely used supplement, particularly for those who need an extra boost in managing their metabolic health.
Reference: Rasmus N. Ottosen et al., “Preparation and Preclinical Characterization of a Simple Ester for Dual Exogenous Supply of Lactate and Beta-hydroxybutyrate,” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 30 August 2024. DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c04849.
