This book offers a comprehensive exploration of research on the essential relationship of the coenzyme Q₁₀ and the process of aging in living organisms. CoQ₁₀ is an important factor in two main aspects of cell physiology: bioenergetics and antioxidant protection. While primary deficiency of CoQ₁₀ is associated with severe and lethal disease, secondary deficiency can be associated with the progression of mitochondrial dysfunction linked to the lessening of biological activities during aging.

The book is organized in four sections. The first offers an overview of the function of CoQ_10, highlighting the two main functions of CoQ₁₀ in cells: its essential role as electron transport chain member in mitochondria, and the protection of cell membranes against oxidation as one of the main endogenous-synthesized antioxidants.

The second section covers research on Coenzyme 10. Topics include studiesinvolving invertebrate models, mammal studies and the influence of CoQ on longevity. Also covered is research involving the role of CoQ in senescence-accelerated mice.

Section three examines the effects of reduced CoQ in human aging, as evident in mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic syndrome, neurodegenerative disorders, immunosenescence and fertility and reproduction.

The final section, Prolongevity effectors and Coenzyme Q, explores research into slowing or stopping the aging process. Coverage includes strategies including calorie restriction, and modulation of CoQ₁₀ levels by induction of synthesis or by supplementation.

Coenzyme Q in Aging benefits a broad readership of researchers, clinicians, educators and students interested in the biochemical and physiological effects of coenzyme Q and the importance of this molecule in aging process.

Preface

Part 1 Basics on coenzyme Q
Introduction. The current coenzyme Q science and knowledge
Molecular structure, biosynthesis, and distribution of coenzyme Q
Coenzyme Q function in mitochondria
Extramitochondrial coenzyme Q₁₀ in aging
 Regulation of the synthesis of Coenzyme Q₁₀
Part 2 Coenzyme Q in aging studies
Coenzyme Q and aging in C. elegans
Coenzyme Q and aging in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster
The aging process and coenzyme Q: clk-1 mouse models
 Reduced coenzyme Q₁₀ decelerates senescence and age-related hearing loss in senescence-accelerated mice by activating mitochondrial functions
Part 3 Age-related diseases and coenzyme Q
Coenzyme Q, mtDNA and mitochondrial dysfunction during aging
Coenzyme Q₁₀ and metabolic syndrome
Coenzyme Q and age-related neurodegenerative disorders: Parkinson and Alzheimer diseases
Immunosenescence and CoQ₁₀
Coenzyme Q₁₀ in fertility and reproduction
Part 4 Prolongevity effectors and Coenzyme Q
Calorie restriction, longevity and coenzyme Q
Age dependent changes of coenzyme Q levels and its induction in experimental systems
Effects of coenzyme Q₁₀ supplementation on elderly people
Index.