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Caffeine keeps you awake by blocking adenosine receptors. Each type of adenosine receptor has different functions, although with some overlap. [3] For instance, both A 1 receptors and A 2A play roles in the heart, regulating myocardial oxygen consumption and coronary blood flow, while the A 2A receptor also has broader anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body. [4]
DMPX (3,7-dimethyl-1-propargylxanthine) is a caffeine analog which displays affinity for A 2 adenosine receptors, in contrast to the A 1 subtype receptors. [1] DMPX had 28 times and 15 times higher potency than caffeine in blocking, respectively, the peripheral and central effects of the adenosine agonist NECA.
Furthermore, located in the intracellular side close to the membrane is a small alpha helix, often referred to as helix 8 (H8). The crystallographic structure of the adenosine A 2A receptor reveals a ligand binding pocket distinct from that of other structurally determined GPCRs (i.e., the beta-2 adrenergic receptor and rhodopsin). [7]
Caffeine's principal mode of action is as an antagonist of adenosine receptors in the brain. [ 12 ] Methylxanthines (e.g. caffeine found in coffee, theophylline found in tea, or theobromine found in chocolate) have a purine structure and bind to some of the same receptors as adenosine. [ 13 ]
Caffeine is an antagonist of all four adenosine receptor subtypes (A 1, A 2A, A 2B, and A 3), although with varying potencies. [5] [167] The affinity (K D) values of caffeine for the human adenosine receptors are 12 μM at A 1, 2.4 μM at A 2A, 13 μM at A 2B, and 80 μM at A 3. [167]
These receptors enable the regulation of multiple processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, function, and death. [47] The activation of the adenosine A1 receptor is required for osteoclast differentiation and function, whereas the activation of the adenosine A2A receptor inhibits osteoclast function. The other three adenosine ...
A 1 receptors are implicated in sleep promotion by inhibiting wake-promoting cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain. [6] A 1 receptors are also present in smooth muscle throughout the vascular system. [7] The adenosine A 1 receptor has been found to be ubiquitous throughout the entire body. [citation needed]
P1 receptors are preferentially activated by adenosine and P2Y receptors are preferentially more activated by ATP. P1 and P2Y receptors are known to be widely distributed in the brain, heart, kidneys, and adipose tissue. Xanthines (e.g. caffeine) specifically block adenosine receptors, and are known to induce a stimulating effect to one's behavior.