About the Q10 Theory

Q10, also known as coenzyme 10, is a vitamin-compound that's manufactured by the body on a regular basis. Much of what's known about coenzyme 10 is the result of research done by a British biochemist named Peter Mitchell. The Q10 theory is the result of discoveries made regarding this essential nutrient.

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Identification

• Coenzyme 10 is known by a number of different names, some of which include vitamin Q, CoQ10, ubiquinone and Q10. It's classified as a vitamin-like substance made up of a quinone chemical group and 10 isoprenyl chemical subgroups. It's present within every cell of the body and closely associated with the cell's mitochondrial structures. Mitochondria play an essential role in the cell respiration process, which produces cellular energy, or adenosine triphosphate, also known as ATP. Q10 materials are needed to manufacture the enzymes involved in this process.

Chemiosmotic Theory

• In 1961, Peter Mitchell proposed a theory regarding the ATP production process that identified coenzyme 10 as a fundamental component within the ATP process. In 1978, Mitchell received a Nobel Peace Prize for formulating the chemiosmotic theory that describes the biological energy transfer activities that take place within the cell during ATP production. His theory specifically describes events that occur within the mitochondrial electron-transport chain during the cell respiration process. An adequate amount of coenzyme 10 within the cell is found to enhance the cell's ability to manufacture ATP.

Electron Transport Chain

• The electron transport chain is a nine-step process that takes place at the very end of the ATP synthesis, or production process. Electron-carrier molecules called NADH and FADH2 work to carry electron charges through this chain. In turn, these charges provide the energy needed to convert ADP, the ATP precursor, into ATP. Coenzyme 10 is a fundamental cell material needed to manufacture the mitochondrial enzymes that regulate the electron transport process. Adequate amounts of Q10 molecules at mitochondrial sites produce the energy needed for efficient electron transport.

Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency

• In effect, the Q10 theory associates the development of certain ailments or diseases to a deficiency of coenzyme 10. Deficiencies can occur because of low dietary intake amounts, overconsumption of Q10 materials by everyday bodily processes or the body's inability to manufacture the substance. Deficiencies that are present over a long period are viewed as contributing to the development of certain conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart failure.

Considerations

• Q10 theory suggests that dietary supplementation of coenzyme 10 can provide the fundamental building blocks needed by the body to sustain healthy system functions. Safety precautions may be warranted in light of how prevalent this material can be within the body. It's best to consult with a doctor when considering Q10, especially in cases related to heart disease, diabetes, cancer or kidney failure. Possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and upset stomach.