Differences Between “Marathon Mice” and “Couch Potato Mice” Reveal Key to Muscle Fitness, Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute Study

Staying up-to-date has never been simpler. Sign up for the free GenePool newsletter today!

Researchers discovered that small pieces of genetic material called microRNAs link the two defining characteristics of fit muscles: the ability to burn sugar and fat and the ability to switch between slow- and fast-twitch muscle fibers. The team used two complementary mouse models -- the “marathon mouse” and the “couch potato mouse” -- to make this discovery. But what’s more, they also found that active people have higher levels of one of these microRNAs than sedentary people.

Hey, check out all the research scientist jobs. Post your resume today!

MORE ON THIS TOPIC