Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in aging

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential factor for aerobic bioenergetics and antioxidant protection in cell membranes and blood plasma lipoproteins. It is a component of the electron transport chain in mitochondria and the trans plasma membrane electron transport. Its deficiency in human causes CoQ10 deficiency syndrome, a heterogeneous group of mitochondrial diseases. Decrease of CoQ10 levels has been also associated with aging progression and age-related diseases. Human supplementation with CoQ10 has improved the progression of age-dependent diseases and decreased the mortality caused by these diseases. Some of them are linked to oxidative damage such as cardiovascular disease and fibrosis. However, its use as supplement depends on its bioavailability and in the capacity to reach organs and tissues. Other strategies to increase endogenous CoQ10 biosynthesis during aging would be explored.