Coenzyme Q10 Research Paper

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural supplement and nutrient that the body needs for survival. Numerous experiments have been done with animals and humans to furthermore one’s knowledge, to find the conclusion about CoQ10 and heart failure. As humans grow old, so does the amount of coenzyme Q10 in the body. Clinical studies have been done over a vast time period, resulting in fewer patients having endothelium dysfunction after taking supplements of coenzyme Q10. “CoQ10 is an essential cofactor of enzymes involved in the process that supplies all cells with energy (cellular respiration) (Mantle 525).” It is typically found in the mitochondria, where energy takes place. Where as lipids are not liquid soluble, coenzyme Q10 is a fat soluble antioxidant and it will protect the cell membrane of the mitochondria. “CoQ10 supplementation has been reported to decrease levels of inflammatory markers in patients with coronary artery disease (Lee et al, 2012).” When this inflammation is kept to a minimum, it allows the blood to flow properly through the
arteries and veins. “Heart failure is a condition in which there is weakening of heart muscle function so that fluid or congestion backs up and causes swelling or edema in the liver, lungs, the lining of the intestine, and the lower legs and feet (Chandra 3821).” In the human body, more than half of the milligrams of CoQ10 are found in the skeletal and heart muscles. “Although some CoQ10 (approximately 25% of requirement) is obtained from the normal diet, most is manufactured within the body, particularly by the liver (Mantle 602).” After about twenty five years of age, the coenzyme Q10 levels in the body start to decrease. Considering, the vitamin-like substance is part of the tissue’s that require significant amounts of energy, such as the heart. This can be life threatening to some people. “Early studies on cardiovascular disease were hampered by a shortage of supply of CoQ10, poor absorption of CoQ10 in its original crystalline form, and insufficient daily dosage (30–60 mg) (Mantle 526).” There are many different but similar types of heart diseases common in the world.
For example, atherosclerosis is when fatty plaques build up on the inner wall of the arteries. The coenzyme Q10 has the ability to restrain any oxidation of cholesterol specifically Low-Density Lipoproteins (Mantle 604). “The role of CoQ10 in protecting LDL cholesterol from free radical-induced oxidative damage (Mantle 604).” Then, resulting in hard, thick deposits of cholesterol that have the capability to clog narrow passage ways. When the heart tissue receives the correct, daily dosage of Coenzyme Q10, it will lowers a persons risk for heart failure. The normal amount the body can produce is any where from 1,500 mg to 2,000 mg (Mantle
602). Once one’s coenzyme Q10 levels decline, that person is then susceptible to cardiovascular disease and immune disorder disease. To be diagnosed with low levels of coenzyme Q10, one might experience serious physical fatigue. Also, due to CoQ10 producing energy, adenosine triphosphate(ATP), when it is not available to be made the body it will encounter frequent headaches and pain. There are many asymptomatic and physical symptoms the body will suffer from but that is only the beginning to something much worse.