CoenzymeQ*0 Synonyms: *******0, C****8,
Ubidecarenone, Ubidecarenone (JP*4/USP), Ubiquinone**0,
ubidecarenone, CAS number: *******0 Chemical formula:
C*9H*0O4� Because
of its ability to transfer electrons and therefore act as an
antioxidant, Coenzyme Q has become a fashionable dietary
supplement. Supplementation of Coenzyme Q*0 has been found to have
a beneficial effect on the condition of some sufferers of
migraines, and is a common component of the "mito cocktail" used to
treat mitochondrial disorders and other metabolic disorders. It is
also being investigated as a treatment for cancer, and as relief
from cancer treatment side effects. Coenzyme Q*0 may act as an
important antioxidant in the body and the brain. Some of these
studies have indicated that Coenzyme Q*0 may protect the brain from
neurodegenerative disease such as Parkinsons and also from the
damaging side effects of a transient ischemic attack (stroke) in
the brain. The isoprene sidechain of Coenzyme Q*0 is synthesized
from acetyl CoA by a series of enzymatic reactions, while the
benzoquinone portion is synthesized from amino acids. Coenzyme Q*0
shares a common biosynthetic pathway with cholesterol. Isopentenyl
pyrophosphate and its isomer, dimethylallyl pyrophosphate, are
linked alternatingly in polyprenyl chains, which are also called
isoprenes. The **-carbon isoprene chain is farnesyl pyrophosphate,
which is a precursor to cholesterol, while the **-carbon isoprene
chain forms the sidechain of coenzyme Q*0. The synthesis of an
intermediary precursor of Coenzyme Q*0, mevalonate, is inhibited by
beta blockers, blood pressure lowering medication, and statins, a
class of cholesterol lowering drugs. Statins can reduce serum
levels of coenzyme Q*0 by up to *0%.�
