Physical activity affects plasma coenzyme Q10 levels differently in young and old humans

Coenzyme Q (Q) is a key lipidic compound for cell bioenergetics and membrane antioxidant activities. It has been shown that also has a central role in the prevention of oxidation of plasma lipoproteins. Q has been associated with the prevention of cholesterol oxidation and several aging-related diseases. However, to date no clear data on the levels of plasma Q during aging are available. We have measured the levels of plasmatic Q(10) and cholesterol in young and old individuals showing different degrees of physical activity. Our results indicate that plasma Q(10) levels in old people are higher that the levels found in young people. Our analysis also indicates that there is no a relationship between the degree of physical activity and Q(10) levels when the general population is studied. However, very interestingly, we have found a different tendency between Q(10) levels and physical activity depending on the age of individuals. In young people, higher activity correlates with lower Q(10) levels in plasma whereas in older adults this ratio changes and higher activity is related to higher plasma Q(10) levels and higher Q(10)/Chol ratios. Higher Q(10) levels in plasma are related to lower lipoperoxidation and oxidized LDL levels in elderly people. Our results highlight the importance of life habits in the analysis of Q(10) in plasma and indicate that the practice of physical activity at old age can improve antioxidant capacity in plasma and help to prevent cardiovascular diseases.