Theobromine upregulates cerebral brain-derived neurotrophic factor and facilitates motor learning in mice

Theobromine, which is a caffeine derivative, is the primary methylxanthine produced by Theobroma cacao. Theobromine works as a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor to increase intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). cAMP activates the cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), which is involved in a large variety of brain processes, including the induction of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF supports cell survival and neuronal functions, including learning and memory.

Source: The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry - October 7, 2016 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Mitsugu Yoneda, Naotoshi Sugimoto, Masanori Katakura, Kentaro Matsuzaki, Hayate Tanigami, Akihiro Yachie, Takako Ohno-Shosaku, Osamu Shido Source Type: research