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A new study from Queen Mary University of London suggests that caffeine might be doing more than just helping you stay awake—it could be encouraging your cells to live longer and healthier. Published in the journal Microbial Cell, the research used fission yeast, a simple model organism with key similarities to human cells, to explore how caffeine affects the cellular stress response and energy management. The scientists found that caffeine activates AMPK, a crucial protein that helps cells sense energy levels and manage processes like stress response, growth, and DNA repair.
Lead author Babis Rallis explained that AMPK acts as a kind of cellular “fuel gauge,” and activating it appears to help cells cope better under stress—something that’s key to healthy aging. This isn’t the first time AMPK has caught the eye of researchers. It’s also the target of metformin, a diabetes drug that’s being explored for its potential anti-aging properties. Caffeine’s ability to activate the same system raises the possibility that moderate caffeine intake could promote longevity through similar mechanisms.
Interestingly, this isn’t the only pathway caffeine seems to influence. Previous research has shown it can also impact a growth regulator called TOR (Target of Rapamycin), essentially fooling cells into thinking they’re low on nutrients. In response, cells slow down growth and trigger self-preserving pathways—actions associated with longer cellular lifespans and reduced wear and tear.
But before you reach for a fifth cup of coffee, Rallis urges moderation. While caffeine itself shows promise, coffee is a complex beverage, and high consumption can have adverse effects. “We discuss caffeine, not coffee,” he notes, pointing out that even drinks like cola contain caffeine but come with unhealthy baggage. Like many things in life, the benefits likely lie in the balance.
