Caffeine Activates Ancient Cellular Switch for Longevity

Caffeine Activates Ancient Cellular Switch for Longevity

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that caffeine can trigger an ancient cellular energy sensor—AMPK—effectively flipping a biological switch linked to longevity.

Their work with fission yeast, published in Microbial Cell, shows that caffeine indirectly engages the AMPK pathway, which in turn suppresses the TOR growth pathway. This process enhances stress resistance, improves DNA repair, and modestly extends the cells’ lifespan—highlighting a possible anti-aging mechanism at play in humans as well  .

While the findings are preliminary and based on yeast models, they shed light on how a cup of coffee might influence cellular health. By stimulating AMPK, caffeine appears to promote maintenance functions in the cell that reduce damage accumulation over time.

These insights not only support epidemiological links between coffee consumption and longevity, but also pave the way for future research into targeted therapies that mimic caffeine’s beneficial effects—without the jitters ().

Source: Science Daily

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250625075024.htm