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McMaster University researchers have another reason for you to stay active into old age.

A new study has zeroed in on the enzyme that’s responsible for controlling muscle deterioration. Researchers found that mice lacking AMP Kinase had significant muscle weakness compared with mice of the same age that had enough of the enzyme. AMP Kinase helps muscles get rid of damaged cells.

We know humans tend to lose the enzyme as they age, but researcher Dr Gregory Steinberg explains that vigorous exercise can change that. “It might allow us to customize exercise routines to make sure the exercise people are doing is intense enough to switch on the AMP Kinase.”

“It might not be enough to just go for a walk. We might need to do more to make sure the AMP Kinase is activated.”

Medication for type 2 diabetes can also help to activate the enzyme. These new findings may help to create new, more effective drugs as well.