Caffeine is a must for many people to start their day. For coffee lovers, a shot of espresso can help them get through the morning slumber. There’s more to this drink than just giving you the obvious energy boost, a new study suggests.
Researchers at the University of Verona in Italy have found that a complete extract of espresso can inhibit aggregation of the tau protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Tau protein helps stabilize brain structure in healthy people.However, with excessive accumulation, clumps form, known as tau fibrils formed in the brain. Tau fibrils are considered a pathological hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
as fibrils accumulation In the brain, patients will begin to show symptoms such as memory loss, poor judgment, mind wandering and mood changes. It is estimated that more than 6 million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Some researchers believe that preventing buildup is key to reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
espresso is a way coffee brewingOriginated in Italy, by forcing boiling water under pressure through finely ground coffee. It is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and is the basis for many types of coffee, including espresso martinis.
In the latest study, the researchers initially examined the molecular composition of the espresso extract and identified the main components. They then performed in vitro and intracellular experiments to assess the effects of coffee on brain regions.
this study Revealing “Biological Properties of Whole Coffee Extract, Caffeine, and Genistein to Prevent Aggregation, Coagulation, and Seeding Activity of Tau Repeat Regions.”
The espresso compound not only prevented tau from accumulating, but was also able to bind to preformed tau fibrils. The tau fibrils shortened with increasing concentrations of espresso extract, as well as with caffeine or genistein compounds. The most dramatic effects were found with the full extract of espresso.
The researchers hope the study will pave the way for the design of bioactive compounds that can combat neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Published by Medicaldaily.com