Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vital molecule that is synthesized in the cells of organs and tissues. However, it could also be ingested through food. Researchers at the University of Granada show for the first time that such a dietary supplement is capable of producing hydrogen sulfidemodulate metabolism.
The benefits of Coenzyme Q10 for mitochondrial diseases
The recent study has suggested that this coenzyme may play a role as a valuable complementary therapeutic option in the treatment of certain mitochondrial diseases. Examples include colon cancer, thyroid carcinoma and Crohn's disease. The two best-known functions of Coenzyme Q10 are its involvement in producing useful energy for cells and its antioxidant capacity. In various pathologies and during the natural aging process, there is a decrease in cellular CoQ10 levels. This can lead to various clinical manifestations of greater or lesser severity. Coenzyme Q10 capsules were therefore available for purchase in pharmacies and herbalists. However, the therapeutic effect of these exogenous supplements cannot be fully explained by their effects on energy production or reduction of oxidative stress. Therefore, the published study addresses this knowledge gap.
The researchers have shown for the first time that such preparations can modulate hydrogen sulfide metabolism. This, in turn, triggers beneficial changes in other important metabolic pathways. These are, for example, serine biosynthesis, the folate cycle and nucleotide metabolism. In various pathologies, such as certain mitochondrial diseases, colon cancer, thyroid carcinoma or Crohn's disease, some of these pathways are altered. Thus, supplementation with Coenzyme Q10 can be a valuable additional therapeutic option for these diseases. The authorsthis studyHowever, they underline an important limitation. This is because a large part of the study results were achieved in cell cultures. Therefore, further studies are required to evaluate the data obtained in vivo in animal models. This would require the ability of CoQ10 to be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract to increase and become available throughout the tissue being targeted.
