How Does It Work?:
CoQ10, also referred to as coenzyme Q 10 or ubiquinone, is a natural fat-soluble nutrient present in virtually all living cells in the body. CoQ10 has a crucial role as a cofactor in the mitochondrial synthesis of cellular energy. CoQ10 also functions as a potent antioxidant.

The Mitochondria: Engine of the Cell
Mitochondria are highly specialized structures (organelles) within each nucleated cell—almost considered a “cell within a cell.” The number of mitochondria in a cell depends on the cell's function. Therefore, cells that require heavy energy demands—heart muscle cells, for example—have higher counts of mitochondria. The mitochondria's primary responsibility is to capture most of the energy in nutrients and convert it into cellular energy. This energy conversion and storage is a complex, multi-step process, but it follows a very specific pathway.

Converted cellular energy is stored in the energy-yielding molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP) used to fuel the cell's activities. (This is similar to the energy stored in gasoline that is used to fuel automobiles). Because this process requires oxygen, it is often referred to as cellular respiration. Pulling as many electrons out of the nutrients as possible is the goal of cellular respiration. That's why part of the pathway is referred to as the electron pathway chain.^5,6 CoQ10 functions as a vital link in the process of converting nutrients into ATP. Cellular respiration and the electron transport chain are completely dependent on CoQ10.

Mitochondria are encased in double membranes. The smooth outer membrane encloses the periphery of the mitochondria and the inner membrane is enfolded to form the cristae. CoQ10 is found in the cristae folds. These folds provide a large surface area for cellular respiration, much in the way that a complex shore adds more miles of coastline.

Mitochondria are unusual organelles in that they contain their own deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). Insufficient CoQ10 levels may have an effect on cellular respiration and mitochondrial DNA.

CoQ10 and Support of Cardiac Health
Cardiac cells require large amounts of uninterrupted energy. They have a greater number of mitochondria and subsequently more CoQ10 than any other type of cell.^6,7 Because of this association, CoQ10's support of cardiac health is well researched and documented.^† CoQ10 supports healthy heart contractility and subsequent circulation, healthy blood pressure levels already within the normal limits, and exercise endurance.^†2,7-11

CoQ10 and Support of Immune Health
CoQ10 is necessary for immune health. Increased free radical activity causes damage to cell membranes, mitochondria, and DNA. Supplementation with CoQ10 provides enhanced antioxidant activity that is supportive of the immune system.