SR-9009 works by activating REV-ERBα and REV-ERBβ, which are proteins that play a crucial role in the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and metabolic regulation. REV-ERBs help control the expression of genes that manage fat storage, lipid and glucose metabolism, and inflammation. When SR-9009 binds to REV-ERB receptors, it essentially shifts the body into a state similar to that of being in constant exercise. Key metabolic effects include: (1) suppression of genes in the liver that produce new glucose (gluconeogenesis) and new fat, thereby lowering blood sugar and blood lipid levels; (2) increased burning of existing fat and sugar – muscles increase the use of fatty acids and glucose for energy, and they ramp up the creation of new mitochondria while reducing old mitochondria breakdown; (3) reduced fat storage – adipocyte (fat cell) generation genes are turned off, and existing fat cells burn more fat (triglyceride levels drop). In animal models, these changes led to 60% greater weight loss in obese mice on SR-9009 vs. controls, despite no change in diet. Another interesting effect is on inflammation: SR-9009, through REV-ERB activation, reduced production of inflammatory molecules like TNF-α and IL-6 in studies. Additionally, by modulating the circadian rhythm, SR-9009 made normally nocturnal mice more active during the day (and slightly less at night), essentially altering their activity patterns to be more aligned with continual energy use. While dubbed “exercise in a bottle,” it’s important to note that human data is lacking; however, the mechanistic results are promising for improving metabolic syndrome markers and endurance.