research digest
3 min read
September 29, 2026

SLU-PP-332: ERR Agonist Shows Promise as Exercise Mimetic

SLU-PP-332, a novel ERR agonist, demonstrates potential as an exercise mimetic by enhancing mitochondrial function and metabolic health. Despite its promise, further research is required to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and safety profile [PMID: 41850449, PMID: 41688415].

Research brief

SLU-PP-332, a novel ERR agonist, demonstrates potential as an exercise mimetic by enhancing mitochondrial function and metabolic health. Despite its promise, further research is required to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and safety profile [PMID: 41850449, PMID: 41688415].

Key findings

• SLU-PP-332 enhances mitochondrial function and metabolic health [PMID: 41688415]. • Identified in in vitro studies as a potential doping concern due to exercise mimicry [PMID: 41588687]. • Promotes fat oxidation and energy expenditure in mouse models [PMID: 41688415]. • Advances understanding of ERR signaling and exercise-responsive pathways [PMID: 41850449].

Detailed research context

Introduction to SLU-PP-332

SLU-PP-332, an agonist of the estrogen-related receptors (ERRα/β/γ), is receiving significant attention for its potential as an exercise mimetic. This compound targets ERRs, orphan nuclear receptors crucial for regulating mitochondrial metabolism and other exercise-related genes [PMID: 41688415]. Given the intricate role of ERRs in skeletal muscle adaptation, SLU-PP-332 offers a promising therapeutic approach for metabolic diseases and muscle atrophy associated with inactivity [PMID: 40692696].

Pharmacological Potential

Research has shown that SLU-PP-332 can mimic the physiological effects of exercise, including the promotion of oxidative muscle fibers and fatty acid oxidation, while increasing exercise endurance in laboratory settings. In mouse models, SLU-PP-332 enhanced energy expenditure and insulin sensitivity, contributing to its promise as a therapeutic agent for conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes [PMID: 41688415]. Through structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, significant insights have been gained into the molecular mechanisms through which SLU-PP-332 influences ERR signaling. Key structural determinants have been identified, providing a foundation for the development of next-generation therapeutics [PMID: 41850449].

Evidence from Metabolic Studies

Detailed metabolic investigations have identified various transformation products of SLU-PP-332. In vitro studies using human liver microsomes exposed nine metabolites, with specific transformations indicating potential metabolic pathways that can aid in future doping control measures [PMID: 41588687]. These metabolites' identification is crucial as SLU-PP-332 is also considered in the realm of sports doping, given its capability to mimic exercise responses [PMID: 41688415].

Practical Considerations and Future Directions

Despite its potential, SLU-PP-332 requires further clinical investigation to fully determine its pharmacokinetic profile and long-term safety. Current studies have largely been laboratory-based or using animal models, with human applications yet to be exhaustively explored. The compound’s lack of oral bioavailability necessitates alternatives such as SLU-PP-915, which shows promise but represents a different chemical approach [PMID: 41421047]. As research progresses, understanding the exact effects of SLU-PP-332 on human metabolism and muscle function will be crucial, with significant implications for addressing conditions like sarcopenia and metabolic syndrome [PMID: 40692696].

Source method

This research briefing is based on the verified PubMed records linked in the References & Citations section below.

📚References & Citations

1. Möller T, Krug O, Thevis M. "In Vitro Metabolism and Analytical Characterization of SLU-PP-332 and SLU-PP-915: Novel Pan-ERR Agonists With Doping Potential.". Rapid communications in mass spectrometry : RCM. 2026. PMID: 41588687.[PubMed ↗]
2. Okda HE, Zhao P, Hayes M et al.. "Chemical optimization of the exercise mimetic SLU-PP-332 enables insight into estrogen-related receptor signaling.". International journal of biological macromolecules. 2026. PMID: 41850449.[PubMed ↗]
3. Avliyakulov NK, Sobolevsky T, Ahrens E. "Analysis and Identification of In Vitro Metabolites of Exercise Mimetic SLU-PP-332 ERRα/β/γ Agonist for Doping-Control Purposes.". Drug testing and analysis. 2026. PMID: 41688415.[PubMed ↗]
4. Billon C, Appourchaux K, Côté I et al.. "An orally active estrogen receptor-related receptor agonist, SLU-PP-915, enhances aerobic exercise capacity.". The Journal of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics. 2026. PMID: 41421047.[PubMed ↗]
5. Bonanni R, Falvino A, Matticari A et al.. "Targeting ERRs to counteract age-related muscle atrophy associated with physical inactivity: a pilot study.". Frontiers in physiology. 2025. PMID: 40692696.[PubMed ↗]

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