New research shows that rapamycin, a drug that can extend lifespan, may hinder the positive effects of exercise in older adults. In the study, 40 participants aged 65 to 85 followed an exercise programme, with half receiving weekly rapamycin and the other half a placebo. Although both groups made progress, the placebo group improved more in muscle strength and endurance than the group taking the drug.
Rapamycin works by inhibiting a key protein complex involved in the creation of new cells and tissues. This results in less muscle growth, whereas physical exercise specifically stimulates muscle building. As a result, the medication appears to counteract the muscle-strengthening effects of exercise. The researchers tried to schedule the dosage so that it would not coincide with training days, but despite this, the inhibition lasted longer than expected.
These findings are important because physical exercise is one of the best ways to stay fit as age advances. The use of rapamycin may reduce its beneficial effects. The researchers emphasise that this is just one study with a limited duration of 13 weeks, so definitive conclusions cannot yet be drawn. However, they advise older people for the time being to rely primarily on exercise to maintain strength and health.
This study points out that combining life-extension agents with exercise must be done carefully. For healthy ageing, regular physical exercise remains an indispensable foundation.
Source: Arkadi Mazin
