This section was compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C. Send all comments or additions to:Frankp@chiro.org
If there are terms in these articles you don't understand, you
can get a definition from the Merriam Webster Medical Dictionary. If you want information about a specific disease, you can access the Merck Manual. You can also search Pub Med for more abstracts on this topic.
Published research has suggested that Coenzyme Q–10 (Co–Q10) is beneficial for certain types of heart disease. What is less widely known is it's role in the support of the immune system, and it's impact on neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's and Parkinson's.
Immune system cells divide more rapidly than most cells, and they are in constant need of repair and maintenance. All of this work requires energy reserves, and Co–Q10 is a critical co–factor in our energy–production pathways. In both animal and human studies, Co–Q10 has compensated for immune deficiencies caused by aging or disease.
Co–Q10 is also a very powerful antioxidant. It is made in our bodies, within a cell organelle called the "mitochondria", and is most concentrated in the energy–demanding heart, brain and muscle systems. Unfortunately, Co–Q10 levels decrease with age (starting at 35 years). Reduced Co–Q10 levels, due either to aging or certain disease conditions, may be overcome by supplementation. Older animals receiving Co–Q10 show increased levels in their blood and brain, and Co–Q10 supplements may help humans in the same way.
Certain "heart–care" drugs inhibit the body's ability to synthesize or utilize Co-Q10. Patients who are taking Cholesterol–lowering Drugs or Beta blockers may be at increased risk of disorders as varied as congestive heart failure, muscle wasting, high blood pressure, and low energy.
Co–Q10 is present in the foods we eat. Rich dietary sources include almonds, ocean salmon, sardines, spinach and certain meats. Research has shown that "soft gel" (or oil–suspension) versions of CoQ10 supplements are much more bioavailable than dry powdered versions.
Co-Q10 Articles
Metabolic Cardiology: The Missing Link in Cardiovascular Disease
Altern Ther Health Med 2009 (Mar); 15 (2): 48–50
The importance of supporting energy production in heart cells and the preservation of the mitochondria in these cells will be the focus of a new frontier in cardiovascular prevention, treatment, and management. Many physicians are not trained to look at heart disease in terms of cellular biochemistry; therefore, the challenge in any metabolic cardiology discussion is in taking the conversation from the "bench to the bedside." An understanding of the vital role that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays in the heart is critical for any physician or clinician considering therapeutic options that support ATP production and turnover in jeopardized cardiac muscle cells.
Coenzyme Q10 Monograph Update
Alternative Medicine Review 2007 (Jun); 12 (2): 159–168 ~ FULL TEXT
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound found naturally in virtually every cell in the human body. Because of
its ubiquitous presence in nature and its quinone structure (similar to that of vitamin K), CoQ10 is also known as ubiquinone. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble substance whose primary role is as a vital intermediate of the electron transport system in the mitochondria. Adequate amounts of CoQ10 are necessary for cellular respiration and ATP production. CoQ10
also functions as an intercellular antioxidant. True deficiency states are rare but often present with severe health consequences. Numerous disease processes, linked to low levels of CoQ10, can benefit from CoQ10 supplementation
including cardiovascular disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy, breast and other cancers, diabetes mellitus,
male infertility, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), asthma, thyroid disorders, and periodontal disease.
Neurodegeneration from Mitochondrial Insufficiency: Nutrients, Stem Cells, Growth Factors, and Prospects for Brain Rebuilding Using Integrative Management
Alternative Medicine Review 2005 (Dec); 10 (4): 268–293 ~ FULL TEXT
One emerging focus for intervention is brain energetics. Specifically, mitochondrial insufficiency contributes to the etiopathology of many such disorders. Electron leakages inherent to mitochondrial energetics generate reactive oxygen free radical species that may place the ultimate limit on lifespan. Exogenous toxins, such as mercury and other environmental contaminants, exacerbate mitochondrial electron leakage, hastening their demise and that of their host cells. Studies of the brain in Alzheimer's and other dementias, Down syndrome, stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Friedreich's ataxia, aging, and constitutive disorders demonstrate impairments of the mitochondrial citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) enzymes.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Oxidative Stress and Dietary Modifications
Alternative Medicine Review 2001 (Oct); 6 (5): 450–459 ~ FULL TEXT
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an illness characterized by persistent and relapsing fatigue, often accompanied by numerous symptoms involving various body systems. The etiology of CFS remains unclear; however, a number of recent studies have shown oxidative stress may be involved in its pathogenesis. The role of oxidative stress in CFS is an important area for current and future research as it suggests the use of antioxidants in the management of CFS.
Coenzyme Q10 – Its Importance, Properties and Use in Nutrition and Cosmetics
Ceska Slov Farm 2000 (May); 49 (3): 119–123
After the age of 35 to 40, the organism begins to lose its ability to synthesize Co Q10 from food and its deficiency develops. Ageing, poor eating habits, stress and infection – they all affect our ability to provide adequate amounts of Co Q10. Therefore Co Q10 supplementation may be very helpful for the organism.
Interaction Between Warfarin and Coenzyme Q10
Ugeskr Laeger 1998 (May 25); 160 (22): 3226–3227
Patients in treatment with warfarin (an anticoagulant or "blood thinner" which decreases the clotting ability of blood, and therefore helps to prevent clots from forming in blood vessels) should be aware of the possible risk of treatment failure when taking coenzyme Q10.
Coenzyme Q10 Monograph
Alternative Medicine Review 1998 (Feb); 3 (1): 58–61 ~ FULL TEXT
CoQ10 , due to its involvement in ATP synthesis, affects the function of all cells in the body, making it essential for the health of all human tissues and organs. CoQ10 particularly affects the cells that are the most metabolically active: heart, immune system, gingiva, and gastric mucosa. Research has found it of benefit for Cancer, Gastric Ulcers, Physical Performance, Periodontal Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Allergy and Cardiovascular Disease.
The Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Clinical Medicine: Part II
Cardiovascular Disease, Hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus and Infertility
Alternative Medicine Review 1996 (Sep); 1 (3): 168–175 ~ FULL TEXT
Enhancing myocardial function is an important, though frequently overlooked component of the overall prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. CoQ10 plays a key role in energy production, and is therefore essential for all energy-dependent processes, including
heart-muscle contraction. CoQ10 deficiency has been documented in patients with various types of cardiovascular disease. It is not clear whether a decline in CoQ10 levels is a primary cause or a consequence of heart disease. However, given the fundamental involvement of CoQ10 in myocardial function, it is not unlikely that CoQ10 deficiency would exacerbate heart disease
and that correction of such a deficiency would have therapeutic value.
The Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Clinical Medicine: Part I
Alternative Medicine Review 1996 (May); 1 (1): 11–17 ~ FULL TEXT
This review discusses the potential role of coenzyme Q10 in the treatment of AIDS, periodontal disease, gastric ulceration, obesity, physical performance, allergy, and muscular dystrophy. The effect of Q10 on immune function and physical performance is also reviewed.
Co–Q10 Energizes the Heart and Brain
Co–Q10 has a dual function. On one hand, it is essential for generating energy in mitochondria, the energy centers of virtually every cell. On the other hand, it is part of the cell antioxidant defense system, which protects against toxic oxygen by–products made during metabolism. [ 3 ] Co–Q10 is made in human cells and is found in the cells of animals and plants that comprise our daily diet. Because of its widespread and ubiquitous presence, Co-Q10 is also called ubiquinone.
Innovative Research And Applications For Coq10
Ubiquinone, commonly referred to as coenzyme Q10, was originally so named because of its omnipresence in virtually every cell of the human body. According to Dr. Karl Folkers, a pioneer in the CoQ10 fermentation synthesis, CoQ10 should be properly renamed “vitamin Q,” and thus take its rightful place in the pantheon of essential nutrients.
The Co–Q10 – Cancer Connection
Coenzyme Q10 (Co–Q10) is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the heart's ability to endure stress and supports mitochondria—cellular structures that produce energy from food. Recent research suggests that low Co–Q10 levels are linked to certain cancers. One U.S. study compared 27 women with normal Pap smears with 75 women with cervical cancer and its precursor—cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Women with cervical cancer and neoplasia had lower concentrations of cervical/vaginal cell Co–Q10 and vitamin E (alpha–tocopherol) compared to women with normal Pap smears.
How Co–Q is Being Used to Fight Cancer
The data on actually treating cancer are exciting but preliminary. Research suggests a relationship between various cancers and the level of Co-Q10 in the blood. [ 4 ] One human trial studied the effect of 90 mg/day of Co-Q10 on breast cancer patients. The results showed that after two years, the women who took Co-Q10 lived longer. Because there was no placebo in this trial, the researchers calculated that on standard therapy, a percentage of these women would have died in this time period. With the nutritional protocol, none of them did. [ 5 ]
Co–Q10 and the Immune System
A Nutritional Approach to Immunity
Many studies show that immune function depends on nutrients found primarily in whole, unprocessed foods. [ 2 ] Researchers have also confirmed that physical activity and a healthy emotional state are essential for proper immune function. [ 3,4 ] A healthy diet and lifestyle may be the cornerstones of a strong immune system, but what specific measures can be taken when a person is faced with an immune challenge such as the annual cold and flu season?
Energy Transformations in the Biosynthesis of the Immune System: Their Relevance to the Progression and Treatment of AIDS
Ceska Slov Farm 2000 (May); 49 (3): 119–123
Dysfunction of the immune system is observed in diseases where metabolic respiration is inhibited. Anabolites that enhance oxidative phosphorylation will provide the ATP essential for the biosynthesis of the cellular components and antibodies of the immune system. The induction of Coenzyme Q10 has been observed to protect against tumor growth and to enhance viral immunity in experimental animals.
The Activities of Coenzyme Q10 and Vitamin B6 for Immune Responses
Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1993 (May 28); 193 (1): 88–92
The blood levels of T4–lymphocytes increased when CoQ10 and pyridoxine were administered together and separately. The ratio of T4/T8 lymphocytes increased when CoQ10 and pyridoxine were administered together and separately. These increases in IgG and T4–lymphocytes with CoQ10 and vitamin B6 are clinically important for trials on AIDS, other infectious diseases, and on cancer.
Coenzyme Q10 Increases T4T8 Ratios of Lymphocytes in Ordinary Subjects and Relevance to Patients Having the AIDS Related Complex
Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1991 (Apr 30); 176 (2): 786–791
We have newly found that 14 ordinary subjects responded to CoQ10 by increases in the T4/T8 ratios and an increase in blood levels of CoQ10; both by p less than 0.001. This knowledge and survival of two ARC patients for four-five years on CoQ10 without symptoms, and new data on increasing ratios of T4/T8 lymphocytes in the human by treatment with CoQ10 constitute a rationale for new double blind clinical trials on treating patients with AIDS, ARC and diverse malignancies with CoQ10.
Research on Coenzyme Q10 in Clinical Medicine and in Immunomodulation
Drugs Exp Clin Res 1985; 11 (8): 539–545
The cardiotoxicity of adriamycin, used in treatment modalities of cancer, is significantly reduced by CoQ10, apparently because the side–effects of adriamycin include inhibition of mitochondrial CoQ10 enzymes. Models of the immune system including phagocytic rate, circulating antibody level, neoplasia, viral and parasitic infections were used to demonstrate that CoQ10 is an immunomodulating agent.
Coenzyme Q10 Concentrations and Antioxidant Status in Tissues of Breast Cancer Patients
Clin Biochem 2000 (Jun); 33 (4): 279–284
An increasing amount of experimental and epidemiological evidence implicates the involvement of oxygen derived radicals in the pathogenesis of cancer development. These findings may support that reactive oxygen species increased in malignant cells, and may cause overexpression of antioxidant enzymes and the consumption of coenzyme Q10. Administration of coenzyme Q10 by nutrition may induce the protective effect of coenzyme Q10 on breast tissue.
Recent Progress in Treatment and Secondary Prevention of Breast Cancer With Supplements
Alternative Medicine Review 1997 (Jan); 2 (1): 4–11 ~ FULL TEXT
This article discusses five naturally occurring agents that are currently being studied to evaluate their potential in the treatment and/or secondary prevention of breast cancer. Preliminary data have been published suggesting that high dose coenzyme Q10 may have anti-cancer activity in women with node-positive breast cancer.
Relevance of the Biosynthesis of Coenzyme Q10 and of the Four Bases of DNA as a Rationale for the Molecular Causes of Cancer
Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1996 (Jul 16); 224 (2): 358–361
Coenzyme Q10 is required to produce DNA for accurate cell replication. For the body to produce CoQ10 it requires the presence of vitamins B6, C, B2, B12, folic acid, niacin, and pantothenic acid as their coenzymes. This paper established deficiencies of Q10 and B6 in cancer. This complete biochemistry relating to biosyntheses of Q10 and the DNA bases is a rationale for the therapy of cancer with Q10 and other entities in this biochemistry.
The Co–Q10 – Cancer Connection
Coenzyme Q10 (Co–Q10) is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the heart's ability to endure stress and supports mitochondria—cellular structures that produce energy from food. Recent research suggests that low Co–Q10 levels are linked to certain cancers. One U.S. study compared 27 women with normal Pap smears with 75 women with cervical cancer and its precursor—cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Women with cervical cancer and neoplasia had lower concentrations of cervical/vaginal cell Co–Q10 and vitamin E (alpha–tocopherol) compared to women with normal Pap smears.
Progress on Therapy of Breast Cancer with Vitamin Q10 and the Regression of Metastases
Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1995 (Jul 6); 212 (1): 172–177
Over 35 years, data and knowledge have internationally evolved from biochemical, biomedical and clinical research on vitamin Q10 (coenzyme Q10; CoQ10) and cancer, which led in 1993 to overt complete regression of the tumors in two cases of breast cancer.
Partial and Complete Regression of Breast Cancer in Patients in Relation to Dosage of Coenzyme Q10
Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1994 (Mar 30); 199 (3): 1504–1508
Relationships of nutrition and vitamins to the genesis and prevention of cancer are increasingly evident. In a clinical protocol, 32 patients having "high-risk" breast cancer were treated with antioxidants, fatty acids, and 90 mg. of CoQ10.
Co–Q10 and Allergies
A Modified Determination of Coenzyme Q10 in Human Blood and CoQ10 Blood Levels in Diverse Patients with Allergies
Biofactors 1988 (Dec); 1 (4): 303–306
The biosynthesis of CoQ10 in human tissues is a complex process that requires several vitamins and micronutrients, so that countless vitamin–unsupplemented Americans may be deficient in CoQ10. The relationship of allergies to autoimmune mechanisms and immunity, and the established relationship of CoQ10 to immune states, may be a rationale for therapeutic trials of administering CoQ10 to patients with allergies who have low CoQ10 blood levels and are very likely deficient.
Neurodegeneration from Mitochondrial Insufficiency: Nutrients, Stem Cells, Growth Factors, and Prospects for Brain Rebuilding Using Integrative Management
Alternative Medicine Review 2005 (Dec); 10 (4): 268–293 ~ FULL TEXT
One emerging focus for intervention is brain energetics. Specifically, mitochondrial insufficiency contributes to the etiopathology of many such disorders. Electron leakages inherent to mitochondrial energetics generate reactive oxygen free radical species that may place the ultimate limit on lifespan. Exogenous toxins, such as mercury and other environmental contaminants, exacerbate mitochondrial electron leakage, hastening their demise and that of their host cells. Studies of the brain in Alzheimer's and other dementias, Down syndrome, stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Friedreich's ataxia, aging, and constitutive disorders demonstrate impairments of the mitochondrial citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) enzymes.
Primary Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency and the Brain
Biofactors 2003; 18 (1-4): 145–152
Our findings in 19 new patients with cerebellar ataxia establish the existence of an ataxic syndrome due to primary CoQ10 deficiency and (they were) responsive to CoQ10 therapy. As all patients presented cerebellar ataxia and cerebellar atrophy, this suggests a selective vulnerability of the cerebellum to CoQ10 deficiency.
Effects of Coenzyme Q10 in Early Parkinson Disease: Evidence of Slowing of the Functional Decline
Arch Neurol 2002 (Oct); 59 (10): 1541–1550
Shults, et al., present the findings of a clinical trial that demonstrates that patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease, given coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation for 16 months, showed significantly less impairment than placebo-treated patients. The efficacy of treatment was readily apparent by the eighth month, and the study showed that patients given the highest dose of CoQ10 had the best overall results.
Coenzyme Q10 Administration and its Potential for Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Biofactors 1999; 9 (2–4): 261–266
Oral administration of CoQ10 significantly decreased elevated lactate levels in patients with Huntington's disease. These studies therefore raise the prospect that administration of CoQ10 may be useful for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Co–Q10 and Heart Disease
Metabolic Cardiology: The Missing Link in Cardiovascular Disease
Altern Ther Health Med 2009 (Mar); 15 (2): 48–50
The importance of supporting energy production in heart cells and the preservation of the mitochondria in these cells will be the focus of a new frontier in cardiovascular prevention, treatment, and management. Many physicians are not trained to look at heart disease in terms of cellular biochemistry; therefore, the challenge in any metabolic cardiology discussion is in taking the conversation from the "bench to the bedside." An understanding of the vital role that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays in the heart is critical for any physician or clinician considering therapeutic options that support ATP production and turnover in jeopardized cardiac muscle cells.
Nutrition and Heart Failure: Impact of Drug Therapies and Management Strategies
Nutr Clin Pract 2009 (Feb); 24 (1): 60–75
Nutrition impairment commonly occurs in patients with heart failure and affects disease progression. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are associated with early mortality, particularly in patients classified as cachectic. Guideline-based therapies approved for heart failure, such as loop diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, aldosterone antagonists, and beta-adrenergic blockers, can lead to electrolyte abnormalities and predispose to some vitamin and micronutrient deficits.
Coenzyme Q in Cardiovascular Disease
J Assoc Physicians India 1998 (Mar); 46 (3): 299–306
Coenzyme Q10 deficiency has been observed in patients with congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, mitral valve prolapse and after coronary revascularization.
The Clinical and Hemodynamic Effects of Coenzyme Q–10 in Congestive Cardiomyopathy
Am J Ther 1997 (Feb-Mar); 4 (2–3): 66–72
In summary, coenzyme Q–10 therapy is associated with significant functional, clinical, and hemodynamic improvements within the context of an extremely favorable benefit–to–risk ratio. Coenzyme Q–10 enhances cardiac output by exerting a positive inotropic effect upon the myocardium as well as mild vasodilatation.
Treatment of Essential Hypertension with Coenzyme Q10
Mol Aspects Med 1994; 15 Suppl: S265–272
A total of 109 patients with symptomatic essential hypertension presenting to a private cardiology practice were observed after the addition of CoQ10 (average dose, 225 mg/day by mouth) to their existing antihypertensive drug regimen. In 80 per cent of patients, the diagnosis of essential hypertension was established for a year or more prior to starting CoQ10 (average 9.2 years). Only one patient was dropped from analysis due to noncompliance. Overall New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class improved from a mean of 2.40 to 1.36 (P < 0.001) and 51% of patients came completely off of between one and three antihypertensive drugs at an average of 4.4 months after starting CoQ10.
Effect of Topical Application of Coenzyme Q10 on Adult Periodontitis
Mol Aspects Med 1994; 15 Suppl: S241-248
These results suggest that topical application of CoQ10 improves adult periodontitis not only as a sole treatment but also in combination with traditional nonsurgical periodontal therapy.
Bioenergetics in Clinical Medicine IX. Gingival and Leucocytic Deficiencies of Coenzyme Q10 in Patients with Periodontal Disease
Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 1976 (Aug); 14 (4): 729–738
Periodontal patients frequently have significant gingival and leucocytic deficiencies of CoQ10. The leucocytic deficiency indicates a systemic nutritional imbalance and is not likely caused by neglected oral hygiene. A gingival deficiency could predispose this tissue to periodontitis and this disease could even augment the deficiency. These results support previously suggested adjunctive use of CoQ10 with oral hygiene for improved treatment presumably through bioenergetics.
Mitochondrial Factors in the Pathogenesis of Diabetes: A Hypothesis for Treatment
Alternative Medicine Review 2002 (Apr); 7 (2): 94–111 ~ FULL TEXT
A growing body of evidence has demonstrated a link between various disturbances in mitochondrial functioning and type 2 diabetes. This basic research into the pathogenesis of diabetes has led to the awareness of natural therapeutics (such as coenzyme Q10) that increase mitochondrial functioning and avoidance of trans-fatty acids that decrease mitochondrial functioning.
Insulin Resistance: Lifestyle and Nutritional Interventions
Alternative Medicine Review 2000; 5 (2): 109–132 ~ FULL TEXT
Insulin resistance appears to be a common feature and a possible contributing factor to several frequent health problems, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovary disease, dyslipidemia, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, certain hormone-sensitive cancers, and obesity. The role of nutritional and botanical substances in the management of insulin resistance requires further elaboration; however, available information suggests some substances are capable of positively influencing insulin resistance. Minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, chromium, and vanadium appear to have associations with insulin resistance or its management. Amino acids, including L-carnitine, taurine, and L-arginine, might also play a role in the reversal of insulin resistance.
Toward Practical Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes
Med Hypotheses 2000 (May); 54 (5): 786–793
Other nutrients that might prove to aid diabetic glycemic control, and thus have potential for prevention, include coenzyme Q and conjugated linoleic acids (CLA). Since the nutrients cited here - including ethanol in moderation - appear to be quite safe and (with the exception of CLA) quite affordable, supplementation with these nutrients may prove to be a practical strategy for diabetes prevention.
