Coenzyme Q10, also called Ubiquinone, is an endogenous synthesized compound, a fat-soluble benzoquinone that has 10 isoprenyls (called proteins) in its side chain and is a key component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain.

The function of coenzyme Q10 located within the mitochondria, in the electron transport system is related to the antioxidant function related to the transport of electrons in the mitochondrial chain.

It is one of the most important antioxidants and is synthesized de novo from every cell in the body. Its biosynthesis decreases with age and its deficiency in tissues is associated with degenerative changes in aging, thus implying a possible therapeutic role of Coenzyme Q10 in human diseases.

There is evidence to support its therapeutic value in addition to standard medical therapy in case of heart failure.

It is an intracellular antioxidant that protects phospholipids from the oxidative damage of induced free radicals (1).

It has also been shown to be effective against diabetes, chronic kidney disease, liver disease (2). 

Coenzyme Q10 studies

Molecular formula: C₅₉H₉₀O₄

Molecular weight: 863.34

CAS: 303-98-0

References_____________________________

(1) Alleva R, Tomasetti M, Battino M, Curatola G, Littarru GP, Folkers K. The roles of coenzyme Q10 and vitamin E on the peroxidation of human low density lipoprotein subfractions. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1995;26:9388–9391

Singh U, Devaraj S, Jialal I. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation and heart failure. Nutr Rev. 2007;1:286–293

(2) Coenzyme Q10 and Degenerative Disorders Affecting Longevity: An Overview.  Mantle D, Hargreaves I.  Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Feb 16;8(2). pii: E44. doi: 10.3390/antiox8020044.