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Coenzyme Q10 in the human retina
Jinfeng Qu1, Yardana Kaufman, Ilyas Washington
1Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|December 9, 2008
Summary
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) levels in the human retina decrease significantly with age, potentially impacting vision. This age-related decline in CoQ10 may contribute to conditions like macular degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
- Gerontology
Background:
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vital antioxidant and component of the electron transport chain.
- Its role in retinal health and age-related changes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) concentrations in the human retina.
- To investigate the relationship between CoQ10 levels and aging in retinal tissues.
Main Methods:
- Human retinal and choroidal tissues were lyophilized.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) was extracted using heptane and quantified via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
Main Results:
- Retinal CoQ10 concentrations averaged 42+/-11 nmol/g in younger donors (<30 years) and 24+/-13 nmol/g in older donors (>80 years).
- Choroidal CoQ10 also decreased with age, from 27+/-16 nmol/g to 18+/-11 nmol/g.
Conclusions:
- Retinal CoQ10 levels may decline by approximately 40% with aging.
- This reduction could impair antioxidant defenses and ATP synthesis, potentially contributing to macular degeneration progression.
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