What secret does a cup of coffee hide – a curious study
Scientists have discovered that coffee can activate ancient cellular survival mechanisms through the AMPK enzyme, not only through the TOR regulator as previously thought. The study, published in Microbial Cell, was conducted on yeast cells that share common genetic traits with humans. The discovery opens up prospects for longevity science.
Scientists have found that coffee can trigger ancient cellular survival mechanisms. This involves activating a special energy response system that controls growth processes, stress protection, and DNA regeneration. The scientific discovery was published in the pages of Microbial Cell. The authors conducted a large series of experiments on reproducing yeast cells. In biological environments, this single-celled organism is often called a 'mini-human' because it shares a vast number of common genetic and evolutionary traits with us. It turns out that caffeine affects biological aging through a fundamental energy perception mechanism. This system has remained unchanged for over 500 million years of evolution, performing vital functions for sustaining life. Previously, the scientific community believed that the prolongation of cell life under the influence of caffeine was exclusively linked to the TOR growth regulator. However, the new study has revealed a fundamentally different pathway: the key role here is played by the AMPK enzyme (AMP-activated protein kinase). This element functions as a cellular fuel sensor. It quickly detects energy deficits and helps the body adapt to stressful conditions. Experts emphasize that the AMPK protein is present both in yeast structure and in the human body. Since AMPK is directly involved in metabolic processes and DNA damage repair, its stimulation through caffeine opens exciting prospects for longevity science.