An 'exercise pill' that gets people in shape without moving a muscle

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Human trials of the miracle drug will start in the next five years

According to experts, the drug makes the body think it is exercising which increases blood flow to the brain and muscles

Scientists are close to developing an “exercise pill” giving people the benefits of physical activity without breaking sweat.

They have identified a key protein the body releases during workouts.

Named Piezo 1, it acts as an “exercise sensor”, boosting blood flow to the brain and muscles to sustain activity. It also restricts the amount pumped to the stomach and intestines.

Experts claim these changes may be partly responsible for the benefits of exercise, such as lower risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer.

The British team say that the protein’s release in humans could be triggered by a pill containing a known compound named Yoda 1 — after the Star Wars Jedi master. They said that Yoda 1 had a similar effect in tests on mice.

Professor David Beech, of the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, said: “It may be by understanding the working of Yoda 1 we can move closer to having a drug that can control chronic conditions.”
The drug, which may have human trials within five years, would not fully replace exercise. But he added: “It could be taken in addition to a walk, for instance, so that a walk becomes more like a run.”

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Two in three Brit adults are considered overweight or obese

ALAMY

Professor David Beech, of the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine says the drug should never completely replace exercise