However, when caffeine is consumed, due to the similarity in its molecular structure, caffeine is able to bind to the receptors and prevent adenosine from attaching and signaling drowsiness. When activated these receptors are activated, feelings of drowsiness set in. As more adenosine builds up over the course of the day due to cells continuing to use energy, it begins to activate adenosine receptors. After ATP is used up by the cells, it breaks down into adenosine and enters the bloodstream. Adenosine results from the breakdown of Adenosine Triphosphate(ATP), which is the main source of energy for your cells. Adenosine is one of the key neuromodulators in the human body that is able to signal when we’re running out of energy and need to sleep. The reason caffeine is able to do this is due to its chemical mimicry of adenosine.

Caffeine is the stimulant that is responsible for coffee’s ability to increase alertness and ward off sleep. The caffeine within coffee is a valuable source of energy for college students, night workers, and new parents alike. Why does coffee give me energy and help me stay awake? But have you ever wondered how this happens? Join me for a brief tour of the effects of coffee on the brain, which will hopefully provide some answers for why coffee makes you feel the way it does. You are likely familiar with the burst of energy and mood boost that comes with drinking coffee. Coffee, the perfect way to start the morning.

Caffeine structure vs adenosine