(P25-033-24) Influence of Caffeine on Brain Electrochemical Activity and Crucial Neuromodulators in Male and Ovariectomized Mice

Objectives: The transition to menopause, a condition marked by hormonal changes, is linked to various health issues, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, obesity, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, excessive intake of caffeine, a common stimulant in coffee, tea, and energy beverages, is known to contribute to insomnia and anxiety. During menopause, many women experience insomnia and sleep disorders. Additionally, caffeine can exacerbate menopausal symptoms and often disrupt sleep. In this study, we examined how caffeine intake impacts essential markers of sleep, including electrocorticography (ECoG) patterns, brain neurotransmitters (serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine), and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in both healthy male and ovariectomized (OVX) mice.

Methods: Mice were grouped in a 2x2 factorial design with two main factors: sex (male and OVX) and caffeine administration (-/+). In female animals, the ovaries were removed bilaterally. Caffeine applications to induce sleep disturbances were administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 7.5 mg/kg.

Results: Caffeine treatment increased spike frequencies but decreased spike amplitudes in mice, with a more pronounced effect observed in OVX mice. The administration of caffeine influenced the levels of serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine in both the serum and brain tissues of mice. Significant reductions in serotonin, dopamine, and melatonin levels were noted in the groups receiving caffeine, particularly among OVX mice (p < 0.0001). Additionally, OVX mice subjected to caffeine treatment exhibited elevated brain malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p < 0.01). These alterations signify the impact of caffeine on the nervous system.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that caffeine may have different effects on sleep markers depending on gender and that hormonal changes can modulate the impact of caffeine on the nervous system. This study represents a significant advancement in unraveling the intricate effects of caffeine on sleep quality and exploring how gender disparities influence these effects. Nonetheless, additional clinical and preclinical investigations are warranted, particularly to elucidate the interactions between caffeine and hormonal fluctuations.

Funding Sources: Bonafide Health, LLC, Harrison, NY, USA