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| What is coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)? |
Coenzyme Q10 exists and is produced in human body. It is an important and essential co-enzyme for energy production for humans.
| It assists in energy production. |
It plays an important role in the pathway called “electron transport system,” which produces large amounts of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a source of energy for regular activities.
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| It is a potent anti-oxidant. |
It is one of the anti-oxidants which, like vitamin E and C, fights free radicals.
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Although CoQ10 is an important substance, its amount contained in each organ decreases after the peak recorded when a person is in their 20s. The amount in the heart is 30% less at age 40 than at age 20. At age 80, it is less than half.
| Amendment from A.Kalen et al. (1989) Lipids, 24, 579 |
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| Physical properties of CoQ10 |
CoQ10 is tasteless and odorless. It is highly soluble in lipid but is almost insoluble in water.
It is yellow- to orange-colored crystalline powder at room temperature. It melts into red-colored liquid at about 48°C.
If administered, CoQ10 is rapidly converted into a type (reduced form) with anti-oxidant activity in vivo after the absorption.
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CoQ10 is not immediately absorbed following uptake. It has been reported that the level of CoQ10 in the blood reaches a peak about six hours after administration.
| Amendment from Y. Tomono et al. (1986) Int. J. Clin. Pharmacol. Ther. Toxicol., 24, 536 |
CoQ10 is absorbed more efficiently if it is taken together with oil or liposoluble foods. It has been reported that, if CoQ10 is taken every day, the level of CoQ10 in the blood stabilizes about two weeks after the first dose. It is therefore advisable to continue intake of CoQ10 for some period of time.
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