Ubiquinone 50 (Coenzyme Q10)

General Information

Ubiquinone 50 (coenzyme Q10) is a fat-soluble substance that participates in cellular energy metabolism and acts as a powerful antioxidant. It is essential for the production of energy (ATP) in mitochondria and protects cells from oxidative stress.

Ubiquinone 50 (Coenzyme Q10)

Ubiquinone is an enzyme involved in cellular energy metabolism, a cofactor in the oxidative phosphorylation process of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and functions as an electron transporter and antioxidant.

Coenzyme Q10 is chemically composed of a quinone ring and an isoprene side chain. Due to the high frequency of double bonds between carbon atoms, coenzyme Q10 is much more stable than vitamins C and E, so it acts as a stabilizer of membrane ion channels and the first line of defense against free radicals.

Ubiquinone is synthesized in 50 tissues, although small amounts are also obtained from food (meat, fish, nuts, fats). It is a fat-soluble substance and is absorbed in the small intestine in the presence of fats and bile acids.

Coenzyme Q10 is a component of almost all membranes and is transported into the circulation via lipoproteins. Up to 60% of coenzyme Q10 is bound to low-density lipoproteins, up to 25% to high-density lipoproteins, and the remaining 15% to other lipoproteins.

Both oxidized and reduced forms of coenzyme Q10 are found in the body. Its antioxidant capacity depends on the ratio of these forms.

Coenzyme Q10 concentration in the body decreases with age, as well as under the influence of certain pathological conditions and medications.

Primary coenzyme Q10 deficiency is caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins involved in its biosynthesis. Ubiquinone deficiency is characterized by neurological symptoms (such as seizures, developmental delay, ataxia) and muscle weakness.

Coenzyme Q10 deficiency is involved in processes such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and oxidative stress.

There is evidence of a link between treatment with statins (anti-lipid medications) and coenzyme Q10 deficiency.