Caffeine and chlorogenic acids in coffee and effects on selected neurodegenerative diseases

Much controversy and misunderstanding has surrounded the disputed health impact of coffee consumption. Recent studies now hel p clarify the pharmacological and neurological health promotin g properties of coffee daily intake. Benefits are shown attributable to coffee’s rich phytochemistry that includes (besides caffein e ), phenolic compounds , such as chlorogenic acids, diterpenes, trigonelline, minerals, amino acids and other volatile compoun ds . It is also a powerful disease fighting antioxidant, the primary source of antioxidants in several countries. The purpose of this article is to review results from current epidemiological and mechanistic studies on the central nervou s system attributed to coffee. A primary focus to this review is the activity of caffeine and chlorogenic acids and their implications to CNS health. The disc ussion will highlight possible molecular mechanisms responsible for the respective pharmacological benefits. Keyword s : coffee, central nervous system caffeine, chlorogenic acid, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinsonism, Huntington Chorea, Multiple sclerosis