[Effect of precursors and modulators of coenzyme Q biosynthesis on the heart mitochondria function in aged rats]

Our research demonstrate that ageing leads to changes in activity of electron-transporting enzyme complexes in myocardial mitochondria of old rats and to increased sensitivity of mitochondrial permeability transition pore to inductors of its opening--Ca2+ and phenylarsine oxide. We also observed activation of lipid and protein free-radical peroxidation processes. Administration of a complex of biologically active substances that included precursors and modulators of coenzyme Q biosynthesis (alpha-tocopherol acetate, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and methionine) we observed the increase in coenzyme Q content, correction of functional activity of mitochondrial electron-transport chain enzyme complexes, the decrease in intensivity of lipid and protein free-radical peroxidation in the heart and the decrease in sensitivity of mitochondrial permeability transition pore to inductors of its opening. This complex may be used to treat mitochondrial dysfunction under numerous pathologies of cardiovascular system, as well as in ageing.