SLU-PP-332: Exploring a New Compound with Exercise-like Benefits for Weight Loss
In recent years, the field of weight management has seen remarkable advances with the introduction of GLP-1 peptide drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide.
As the search for effective weight loss solutions continues, scientists are now investigating “exercise mimetics” — compounds that replicate the effects of exercise without requiring actual physical activity.
One such new compound gaining attention is SLU-PP-332. It’s still being studied, but early research shows it might work in a way that adds to what GLP-1 drugs can do—possibly giving us another way to fight obesity.
Here’s what the science says about SLU-PP-332’s benefits, how it works, and its potential.
Quick Summary:
-
SLU-PP-332 mimics the effects of aerobic exercise, boosting fat burning, energy use, and endurance — without actual physical activity.
-
In mouse studies, it led to major weight and fat loss, better blood sugar control, and improved liver health, with no harmful side effects observed.
-
It hasn’t been tested in humans yet, but researchers believe it could become a new way to treat obesity and metabolic disorders in the future.
Table Of Contents
What is SLU-PP-332? How Does it Work?
SLU-PP-332 is a synthetic, peptide-like compound that mimics certain properties of natural peptides in the body. SLU-PP-332 functions by activating estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), which play a crucial role in regulating energy metabolism.
When these receptors are activated, they enhance the function of mitochondria—the energy powerhouses of cells—leading to increased energy expenditure and fat burning. Essentially, SLU-PP-332 tricks the body into responding as if it were undergoing aerobic exercise.
The idea is that you can take SLU-PP-332 and get the benefits of exercise without having to actually work out.
SLU-PP-332 Potential Benefits
Early research suggests that SLU-PP-332 may offer several related benefits:
- Helps the body burn more energy and fat, offering a way to fight obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Prevents extra fat from building up
- Makes the body respond better to insulin
- Boosts exercise endurance
Current Research Findings
Most of the available evidence for SLU-PP-332 comes from petri dish and animal studies.
One 2024 study that looked at the effects of SLU-PP-332 in mice. The researchers administered the drug to both diet-induced obese mice and genetically obese mice, finding that SLU-PP-332:
- Mimics Exercise: SLU-PP-332 triggered metabolic changes similar to aerobic exercise, such as increased fatty acid oxidation and higher resting energy expenditure.
- Reduced Fat Mass: Treated mice lost 12% of body weight, gained 10x less fat, and had smaller fat cells, despite no change in food intake.
- Improved Glucose Tolerance: In obese models, SLU-PP-332 improved glucose control and reduced fasting insulin levels.
- Liver Health Benefits: SLU-PP-332 reduced liver fat and triglycerides, helping combat fatty liver disease.
- No Harmful Effects: The treatment didn’t negatively affect muscle, liver enzymes, or pancreatic function.
The researchers concluded that SLU-PP-332 and compounds like it may help reduce body fat and improve blood sugar control, showing promise for treating conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, a similar 2023 study found that SLU-PP-332:
- Boosted endurance capacity in mice, leading to a 70% increase in running time and 45% increase in running distance.
- increased mitochondrial function and oxidative fibers in skeletal muscle, and boosted expression of key metabolic genes linked to improved exercise performance.
While these findings are promising, it’s important to note that, as of now, SLU-PP-332 has not been tested in human clinical trials. The researchers behind the studies — Dr. Harris and his team at the University of Florida — hope to move to human studies next.
SLU-PP-332 Safety & Side Effects
Safety information for SLU-PP-332 is limited by the early stage of research. In animal studies, SLU-PP-332 has not shown any serious side effects. However, rigorous human studies are needed before we fully understand SLU-PP-332’s safety profile.
SLU-PP-332: More Research Needed
SLU-PP-332 represents an exciting new approach to weight loss: mimicking the effects of exercise without actually having to do it. However, the current evidence base remains preliminary and limited.
It’s too early to say just how effective SLU-PP-332 is for weight loss and how it compares to GLP-1 weight loss peptides like tirzepatide. Human studies are needed before we can say anything for certain.
Key questions researchers need to answer include:
- Does SLU-PP-332 produce clinically meaningful weight loss in diverse populations?
- How does its safety profile compare to established treatments?
- Does it maintain effectiveness long-term?
- What is the optimal dosing strategy?
- Are there specific populations who benefit most?
- Billon, Cyrielle, et al. “A synthetic ERR agonist alleviates metabolic syndrome.” The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics 388.2 (2024): 232-240.
- Billon, Cyrielle, et al. “Synthetic ERRα/β/γ agonist induces an ERRα-dependent acute aerobic exercise response and enhances exercise capacity.” ACS chemical biology 18.4 (2023): 756-771.
