Researchers at King’s College London have found significant connections between theobromine, a widely-known plant compound from cocoa, and measures of epigenetic aging, indicating that theobromine may be associated with human aging.
third others. We illustrate that the documented beneficial relationship between health and aging and theobromine intake extends to the molecular epigenetic level in humans. Image credit: Sci.News.
“Coffee and cocoa are popular foods and are linked to lower rates of cardiovascular disease and mortality,” commented lead author Ramy Saad, Ph.D., along with colleagues.
“They contain several significant alkaloids, including theobromine, caffeine, theophylline, paraxanthine, and 7-methylxanthine.”
“Theobromine and 7-methylxanthine are partial metabolites of caffeine, yet both exist in much greater concentrations in cocoa as unprocessed primary metabolites.”
“Theobromine has long been associated with various health benefits and aging. For instance, studies in model organisms have confirmed a link between theobromine and extended lifespan.”
“Moreover, various human cohort observational studies have reported clear links between theobromine intake and multiple aspects of improved health.”
“Nonetheless, the exact impacts of theobromine on health and aging remain unclear, and the molecular pathways behind these effects are largely unknown.”
In the research, scientists analyzed the levels of theobromine in individuals’ blood against blood-based indicators of biological aging.
Across two European cohorts, which included 509 participants from TwinsUK and 1,160 from KORA, individuals with elevated levels of theobromine in their bloodstream exhibited a lower biological age compared to their chronological age.
“Our research discovered a correlation between key components in dark chocolate and prolonged youthfulness,” stated the study’s senior author, Professor Jordana Bell.
“While we’re not advocating for increased dark chocolate consumption, this study sheds light on how common foods might offer insights into healthier, longer living.”
The researchers also explored whether other metabolites found in cocoa and coffee reflected similar associations.
However, they concluded that the effect appears to be unique to theobromine.
Two different assessments were used to measure the biological age of participants.
Some researchers examined chemical alterations in DNA to estimate an individual’s aging rate.
Other scientists assessed the length of telomeres, the protective end caps of chromosomes, as telomere shortening is linked with aging and age-associated diseases.
“This is a fascinating finding, and the next crucial question is: What drives this association, and how can we further explore the interactions between dietary metabolites and the epigenome?” Dr. Saad remarked.
“This strategy could unveil significant discoveries about both common and rare diseases, as related to aging and beyond.”
“This study has uncovered another molecular mechanism through which natural compounds present in cocoa promote health,” noted study co-author Dr. Ricardo Costeira.
“Although further investigation is warranted, the findings highlight the importance of population-level analysis in the fields of aging and genetics.”
of findings Published in a journal on December 10th aging.
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Ramy Third others. Theobromine is associated with delayed epigenetic aging. aging published online on December 10, 2025. doi: 10.18632/aging.206344
Source: www.sci.news
