Key points from article :
A protein called Metrnl increases after exercise and is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
Previous research showed Metrnl reduces inflammation and helps fat metabolism in animals.
This study confirmed Metrnl levels are lower in people with heart disease and higher in healthy individuals.
Exercise for 12 weeks boosted Metrnl levels and lowered inflammation in people with heart disease.
Metrnl protected human cells from oxidative stress, a key factor in heart disease.
Researchers suggest Metrnl could be a future treatment for heart disease.
The study was carried out by researchers at Shenzhen People's Hospital and published in the journal Aging.
