الفهرس 
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Abstract
Caffeine, 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine, a purine alkaloid, is a key component of many popular drinks, mainly tea and coffee. Little is known about its biochemistry and molecular biology. Caffeine-containing beverages are marketed directly to children and caffeine use is on the rise among children. It is important to understand the potential effects of caffeine use within this population. It is classified as a stimulant drug that is typically used for its ability to arouse the central nervous system. Although recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration Unit, caffeine use in excess can result in serious health hazards and death in rare cases.
This study was aimed to investigate the biochemical and histological effects of caffeine on bone of growing rats. Caffeine is widely consumed at different levels by most segments of the population.The effect of caffeine on bone is controversial, therefore, this study was performed to clarify the histological and histochemical changes induced by caffeine administration on bone of young rats and to estimate the serum levels of Ca, Zn, Mn and APL by biochemical methods.
In the present study, blood Ca, Zn, Mn levels in experimental groups revealed significant decrease in low-dose treated group and highly significant decrease in high-dose treated group. The Alkaline phosphatase of low dose treated group was non significant decrease than control group, but the high dose treated group showed significant increase than control group. Sections of low-dose treated group showed increase thickness of epiphyseal plate (mainly proliferating and hypertrophic zone) and appearance of vacuolated cells in resting zone together with irregular fusing of cartilage cells. Diaphyseal section of low dose showed thinning out of the outer compact bone with increase thickness of the outer fibrous layer of periostium and prolifersion of the inner osteogenic layer of perioste. Numerous osteoperiotic cavities filled with granulation tissue were also seen in the matrix. Osteocytes appeared degenearated and surrounded by few irregular collagen matrix. Osteoclasts showed hyperplasia and appear in their lacunae and within the bone marrow.
Sections of high dose treated group showed marked degenerative changes with numerous eaosion cavities leading to fracture at some site of some section.
It is concluded that oral administration of caffeine leads to significant reduction of serum Ca, Zn and Mn and significant elevation of serum ALP together with dose-dependant destructive changes in the bone tissue.
It is recommended that caffeine intake should be minimized especially in young age group. Further study for long duration and in neonatal age are recommended.