For the first time, scientists have developed drugs that mimics the effects of endurance exercise. With the aid of two chemicals, Vihang Narkar, Ronald Evans and colleagues from the Salk Institute managed to turn regular lab rodents into furry Paula Radcliffes – mighty mice that were capable of running further and for longer than their peers. One of the drugs only worked in combination with exercise, but the other managed to boost stamina without it.
Using drugs to boost performance isn’t a new development. Steroids can help body-builders to build their bodies, while giving athletes an extra burst of speed. But this is the first time that scientists have managed to develop chemicals that improve stamina, as opposed to strength or speed. One of these drugs only worked when taken in conjunction with exercise, but the other boosted endurance in inactive, couch-potato mice too.
