The inhibition of the mammalian DNA methyltransferase 3a (Dnmt3a) by dietary black tea and coffee polyphenols
2011

How Black Tea and Coffee Polyphenols Affect DNA Methylation

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Rajavelu Arumugam, Tulyasheva Zumrad, Jaiswal Rakesh, Jeltsch Albert, Kuhnert Nikolai

Primary Institution: Jacobs University Bremen

Hypothesis

Can dietary polyphenols from black tea and coffee inhibit DNA methyltransferase 3a (Dnmt3a)?

Conclusion

The study suggests that black tea and coffee polyphenols can inhibit Dnmt3a, which may contribute to their health benefits.

Supporting Evidence

  • Theaflavin 3,3'-digallate showed an IC50 value of 44 μM against Dnmt3a.
  • Thearubigin fractions exhibited IC50 values of 40 μM and 28 μM.
  • Black tea and coffee consumption is linked to improved mental performance.

Takeaway

Drinking black tea and coffee might help your brain work better because they have special ingredients that can change how our genes work.

Methodology

The study involved screening various dietary polyphenols for their ability to inhibit Dnmt3a activity in vitro.

Limitations

The study does not provide data on the long-term effects of these polyphenols on human health.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2091-12-16

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