Coffee's protective mechanisms against neurodegeneration

A widely consumed beverage, coffee has emerged as a potential protective natural agent against neurodegenerative diseases. This chapter explores the intricate mechanisms by which coffee and its bioactive compounds exert neuroprotective effects. The antioxidant properties of coffee polyphenols, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, mitigate oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Coffee modulates neurotransmitter systems, including dopaminergic, cholinergic, and glutamatergic pathways implicated in neurodegeneration. Additionally, coffee activates neuroprotective signaling cascades, such as the Nrf2 pathway, and inhibits pro-inflammatory pathways like NF-κB. Coffee components also influence mitochondrial function, biogenesis, and energy metabolism, thereby promoting neuronal survival. Furthermore, coffee suppresses microglial activation and modulates microglial phenotypes, reducing neuroinflammatory responses. Epidemiological studies and clinical trials provide insights into the potential benefits of coffee consumption on cognitive function and neurodegenerative disease risk. However, future research should focus on identifying specific coffee bioactive compounds and their mechanism of action. This chapter highlights the multifaceted neuroprotective mechanisms of coffee, paving the way for future research and potential therapeutic interventions.