Coenzyme Q, oxidative stress and aging

Coenzyme Q (CoQ has three well-characterized functions in mitochondria, namely (i) transfer of reducing equivalents in the electron transport chain, (ii) generation of superoxide anion radical, O-2(.-), and (iii) quenching of free radicals. The main purpose of this review is to discuss the effects of CoQ(10) intake for relatively prolonged periods on mitochondrial respiratory capacity, indicators of oxidative stress, and life span of animals, in context of the broader issue of whether or not the overall progression of the aging process can be modified by CoQ(10) administration. Comparative studies on different mammalian species have indicated that the rate of mitochondrial superoxide anion radical generation is directly correlated with mitochondrial CoQ(9) content and inversely related to amounts of CoQ(10), particularly the CoQ(10) bound to mitochondrial membrane proteins. Contrary to the historical view, dietary supplementation of mice and rats with CoQ(10) has been demonstrated to augment the endogenous CoQ content (CoQ(9) + CoQ(10)) in mitochondria and homogenates of various tissues, albeit to varying extent. Ingestion of CoQ(10) results in the elevation of endogenous CoQ9, the predominant homologue in mice and rats. In our studies, there was no indication of a discernable effect of CoQ(10) intake reflecting enhancement of mitochondrial respiratory activity, antioxidant capacity and pro-oxidant potentiation or prolongation of life span. The possibility that CoQ(10) intake affects certain other biological functions by as yet unelucidated mechanisms cannot be ruled out as CoQ has been shown to broadly alter gene expression in mice.(c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. and Mitochondria Research Society. All rights reserved.