Mettler-Toledo Calibration substance ME 18872, Caffeine analytical standard, for the calibration of the thermosystem 900, traceable to primary standards (LGC)

Synonym: 1,3,7-Trimethylxanthine, Caffeine

CAS Number: 58-08-2

Empirical Formula (Hill Notation): C₈H₁₀N₄O₂

Molecular Weight: 194.19

Beilstein Registry Number: 17705

EC Number: 200-362-1

MDL Number: MFCD00005758

PubChem Substance ID: 24886771

Biochem/physiol Actions
A central nervous system stimulant believed to act through adenosine receptors and monoamine neurotransmitters. It is an adenosine receptor antagonist and adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Thus, levels of cAMP increase in cells following treatment with caffeine. It has been reported to affect cellular calcium levels, releasing calcium from intracellular stores. It overrides the cell cycle effects of various chemicals such as protease inhibitors, preventing apoptosis; and it has been shown to inhibit cellular DNA repair mechanisms.