They are focussing their efforts on substances called chlorogenic acids. It is believed that these compounds offset the effect of another ingredient of coffee, caffeine.
Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that can set the heart racing, and prevent sleep.
They believe the compounds also have potential for treating epilepsy, hyperactivity and sleep problems. The research could lead to new treatments for insomnia Laboratory tests show chlorogenic acids act as antioxidants, mopping up destructive free radical molecules which contribute to heart disease. Some also appear to influence a chemical, adenosine, that controls the rate at which nerves transmit messages. Caffeine causes the heart to pound by blocking the action of adenosine. A lack of adenosine is also implicated in conditions such as supraventricular tachycardia, where the heart beats at a constant rate but much too fast.