The concept of a pill that replaces exercise may sound like something out of a sci-fi novel, but according to a recent SciTechDaily article, it’s a real thing. A team of researchers at The Australian National University identified molecular signals that are sent to the brain, and perhaps the eyes, immediately after exercise. Riccardo Natoli, Head of Clear Vision Research at ANU, believes the molecules could be captured, re-coded, and packaged in pill form to be taken like a vitamin.
The team is currently conducting research to learn more about how these molecular messages affect retinal health. They believe that as the body ages, the ability to communicate between muscles and the retina deteriorates. Just like how we take supplements, we may soon be able to provide genetic or molecular supplementation that prolongs our body’s ability to carry out biological processes. Preliminary research has been promising, and the hope is that the concept could one day be used to treat Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
