Health benefits and mechanisms of theobromine
Mengjuan Zhang, Haifeng Zhang, Lü Jia, Yi Zhang, Runwen Qin, Shihua Xu, Yingwu Mei
Abstract
This comprehensive review elucidates the potential health benefits of theobromine, the principal psychopharmacological compound abundant in cocoa beans and various other sources. Theobromine showcases neuroprotective attributes, enhances cognitive function, and holds promise in mitigating age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, it exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, facilitates adipocyte browning, and contributes to weight management by augmenting lipid metabolism. Moreover, theobromine displays the potential to prevent kidney stone formation by inhibiting uric acid crystallization and promoting diuresis. As a metabolite of caffeine in mammals, theobromine shares similar pharmacological effects, primarily attributed to its structural resemblance to adenosine. These effects encompass phosphodiesterase inhibition, modulation of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 activity, and adenosine receptor antagonism. While theobromine shows significant promise for medical applications, further research is imperative to comprehensively understand its clinical efficacy and safety profile.