A comprehensive insight into the molecular effect of theobromine on cardiovascular‐related risk factors: A systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies

Abstract

Theobromine may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors. This study aimed to find molecular effects of theobromine on lipid profile, glycemic status, inflammatory factors, and vascular function through a comprehensive assessment of all in vitro and in vivo studies. The search process was started at 18 July 2022. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to find all articles published up to 18 July 2022. Nineteen studies were included in this study. In vitro studies showed the improving effects of theobromine on inflammatory markers. Of four animal studies assessing the effect of theobromine on inflammatory markers, two reported favorable effects. Among five animal studies assessing the effects of theobromine on lipid profile, three reported improving effects on either triglyceride, total cholesterol, low‐ or high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Of the three human studies, two revealed that theobromine had improving effects on lipid profile. A favorable effect of theobromine on augmentation index was also reported in two RCTs. The results for other outcomes were inconclusive. Theobromine may have favorable effects on inflammatory factors, lipid profile, and vascular function markers. However, studies with a longer duration and lower, dietary‐relevant doses are required for future confirmation.

Theobromine improves hyperactivity, inattention, and working memory via modulation of dopaminergic neural function in the frontal cortex of spontaneously hypertensive rats

“…[67][68][69] In SHR, an increased inflammatory response, particularly during the juvenile stage (around 5 weeks of age), may be linked to disrupted development and maturation of the PFC. 70 Given that TB suppresses inflammatory responses by inhibiting the mammalian target of rapamycin kinase and the nuclear factorkappa B cascade, 32,71,72 the amelioration of ADHD symptoms in SHR could be attributed to TB's anti-inflammatory effects.…”