The conversion of energy from carbohydrates and fats to the form of energy used by cells (‘adenosine triposphate’, ATP) requires the presence of coenzyme Q in the inner mitochondrial membrane. High concentrations of coenzyme Q10 can also be found in the membrane of ‘lysosomes’, specialized components within cells that digest cellular debris. For optimal function of the digestive enzymes within lysosomes, coenzyme Q10 is needed (2, 3).

 

In its reduced form, coenzyme Q10 is an effective fat-soluble cellular antioxidant, protecting membrane proteins and DNA from the oxidative damage that accompanies lipid oxidation (1). In addition to neutralizing damaging free radicals directly, coenzyme Q10 is capable of regenerating oxidized vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) (4).