Coenzyme Q10 – A novel molecule

Coenzyme Q10 is a fat soluble vitamin-like substance produced by the human body. It is necessary for proper functioning of many organs and for basic functioning of cells. It is found throughout the body. Coenzyme Q10 is used both as a food supplement and as an important antioxidant. It is a component of the electron transport chain and plays a key role in producing energy in mitochondria in the form of ATP that functions like a rechargeable battery in the transfer of energy. Coenzyme Q10 levels are reported to decrease with age and to be low in cardiac conditions, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, diabetes, muscular dystrophies, HIV/AIDs, etc. Some drugs also lower Coenzyme Q10 levels. It is not only used as an important nutrional supplement by millions of people all over world but is also used in a number of clinical conditions namely CHF, diabetes, gum disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc. Coenzyme Q10 is fairly safe and well tolerated.