Effect of coenzyme Q10 on superoxide production in rats with reperfusion injuries

We examined the effect of coenzyme Q10 (Co Q10) on superoxide radical (O2-) production in a model of rat reperfusion injury. The chemiluminescence method using a derivative of luciferin was used to quantify O2- production by erythrocytes in the reperfused limb after a period of ischaemia. A total of 20 limbs from Lewis rats were preserved at 4 degrees C in Euro-Collins solution for 72 hours, and were grafted orthotopically to syngeneic rats by a microsurgical technique. In the treated group (n = 10), Co Q10 (10 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally into the recipients one hour before reperfusion. In the control group (n = 10), the same dose of solvent was given. To measure the extent of oxidative stress, heparinised blood from the treated and control recipients was collected before, and at 15, 30, and 60 minutes after reperfusion for the measurement of chemiluminescence. O2- production in the Co Q10-treated group was significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). Although these findings suggest that Co Q10 scavenged O2- that was produced in the replanted limbs as a result of ischaemia-reperfusion injury, we should consider other possible mechanisms by which this agent may protect against ischaemia-induced reperfusion injury.