Researchers focused on the hypothalamus and the neurons that produce the SF1 protein, which is important for metabolic regulation. They already knew from previous experiments on mice that the removal of the gene encoding SF1 reduces endurance. Therefore, the scientists decided to study how physical activity affects the activity of SF1 neurons in these animals. The results, reported in the journal Nature, turned out to be diverse.
Firstly, after several training sessions, an increase in the number of neurons and their activity was recorded. Secondly, one group of neurons began to activate only after physical activity was completed. Finally, an examination of brain tissues showed that regular training leads to changes in the electrical properties of neurons and a doubling of the number of synapses.
“The conclusions of our study highlight the significance and possibly the key role of these neurons in increasing endurance. That is, the more you exercise, the more synapses responsible for excitation are formed, which can enhance your endurance,” noted one of the authors of the study, Jeffrey Zigman. At least in mice, it was observed that the activation of SF1 neurons contributed to improvements in endurance and strength.
Now researchers intend to explore the possibility of using these findings to treat muscle mass deficiency by stimulating SF1 neurons. This discovery may also prove beneficial for athletes seeking to improve their performance.
