Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ-10 is also known as ubiquinone (it is found in every cell). Chemically it is a fat-soluble quinone and is classified as a co-enzyme. It was discovered in 1940 and is structurally related to vitamin K. It is involved in cell respiration, electron cell transfer, is a strong antioxidant and may inhibit certain enzymes involved in the formation of free radicals (oxidants). The most common forms are CoQ6 through CoQ10. However, only CoQ10 is found in mammals. The total body content of CoQ10 is about 0.5 to 1.5 grams. It is found mainly in the mitochondria and is necessary for the production of ATP. The highest concentration is found in the heart, liver, adrenal, spleen, kidney and pancreas. The average plasma half-life is 34 hours. Non-sick people need about 90 mg/day. If "sick", then the need increases to about 300 mg/day. CoQ10 decreases with age. A number of age-related disorders, including the loss of energy may be associated with altered CoQ10 availability. When cellular CoQ10 is low, aging accelerates in all individuals.

Decreased levels of CoQ10 have been associated with congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, cancer, chronic hemodialysis, Parkinson's disease, periodontal disease, male infertility and miscarriage.