London, Aug 25: Researchers at the University of London have found that caffeine can block the action of an enzyme involved in cell signalling, growth and death. The enzyme PI-3 kinase is a 'master molecule' which orchestrates various cell functions, such as cell growth, blood clotting and inflammation. The researchers have discovered that caffeine, and its related compound theophylline, can block PI-3 kinase. Though caffeine is not known to have many health benefits, its ability to block the kinase enzyme could be turned to good use. Caffeine or related molecules could be used to block cell growth in cancer or to inhibit blood clotting in heart disease.

Meanwhile, theophylline - which is found in chocolate and cocoa -is already used to treat asthma. "Its ability to 'damp down' inflammation may be related to its ability to block PI-3 kinase", scientists were quoted by Health and Age as saying. Bureau Report