Scientists have explained why older people should drink coffee
Researchers have found that a compound in coffee improves learning and memory in elderly mice.A new study has found that a bioactive compound found in coffee beans improves learning and memory decline in elderly mice. The results will help in the development of a complementary drug compound to treat or prevent age-related cognitive decline.
A new study by researchers from the University of Tsukuba in Japan has shown that trigonelline (TG), an alkaloid compound, affects cognitive function in mice. It is found in high concentrations in coffee beans.
Caffeine, TG and nicotinic acid (niacin or vitamin B3) are three important bioactive compounds in coffee. During the bean roasting process, TG is broken down into nicotinic acid, which is good for the nervous and digestive system and skin. However, studies have shown that TG has its own therapeutic effects as well. The compound is also found in fenugreek seeds and Japanese radish.
In the current study, researchers used age-accelerated mice that developed spatial learning deficits and symptoms of memory loss. They were orally administered TG at a dose of 5 mg/kg per day for 30 days.
After 30 days, the mice underwent a behavioral test to measure spatial learning and memory. Problems with spatial memory are a common consequence of damage to the hippocampus, a complex brain structure deep in the temporal lobe. In humans, the volume of the hippocampus decreases with age, which may contribute to age-related cognitive decline.
The researchers found that mice given TG showed significant improvements in spatial learning and memory performance compared to controls. Given the decreased reliance on the hippocampus, a decline in spatial memory, they investigated the biological effects of TG there.
In addition, the researchers found that TG suppresses neuroinflammation by regulating pathways that lead to the creation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. And it also increases levels of neurotransmitters fundamental to normal brain function: dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin.
The study was published in the journal ZeroScience.
A 2014 study found that a standard Italian espresso (25 ml) contains an average of 42.4 mg of the compound, with higher levels in Arabica coffee than in Robusta. Decaffeinated coffee also contains TG.