Molecular targets of caffeine in the central nervous system.

Abstract

Caffeine is an alkaloid obtained from plants and is one of the most consumptive drug in the form of chocolate, coffee and beverages. The potential impact of caffeine within CNS can be easily understood by mechanism of action-antagonism of adenosine receptor, calcium influx, inhibits phosphodiesterases. Adenosine a neuromodulator for adenosine receptors, which are abundantly expressed within the central nervous system. Caffeine antagonized the adenosine receptor, hence stimulate expression of dopamine. It plays pivotal role in many metabolic pathways within the brain and nervous system, it reduced the amyloid-β-peptide (Aβ) accumulation, downregulation of tau protein phosphorylation, stimulate cholinergic neurons and inhibits the acetylcholinestrase (AChE). It also possess antioxidant and antiapoptotic activity. Caffeine act as nutraceutical product, improves mental health. It contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and dietary supplements, by reducing the risk factor of several neurodegenerations including Alzheimer's disease, migraine, gallstone, cancer, Huntington's disease and sclerosis. This act as a stimulant and have capability to increase the effectiveness of certain pain killer. Beside positive affects, over-consumption of caffeine leads to negative impact: change in sleep pattern, hallucinations, high blood pressure, mineral loss and even heartburn. This chapter highlights pros and cons of caffeine consumption.