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Evidence for coenzyme Q function in transplasma membrane electron transport.
1Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907.
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
|November 15, 1990
Summary
Coenzyme Q acts as a transmembrane electron carrier in the plasma membrane, influencing cell growth. This redox activity is crucial for cell proliferation and can be modulated by coenzyme Q10.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Transplasma membrane electron transport is linked to cell growth stimulation.
- Coenzyme Q, a lipid-soluble molecule, is found in plasma membranes.
- Its lipid solubility suggests a role in transmembrane electron transport.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of coenzyme Q in transplasma membrane electron transport.
- To determine if coenzyme Q functions as a transmembrane electron carrier.
- To understand the relationship between coenzyme Q and cell growth regulation.
Main Methods:
- Extraction of coenzyme Q from isolated rat liver plasma membranes.
- Assay of NADH ferricyanide reductase activity.
- Inhibition studies using piericidin and coenzyme Q analogs.
- Reversal of inhibition with added coenzyme Q10.
- Measurement of ferricyanide reduction by intact cells and isolated membranes.
Main Results:
- Coenzyme Q extraction reduced NADH ferricyanide reductase activity.
- Added coenzyme Q10 restored the reductase activity.
- Piericidin and coenzyme Q analogs inhibited transplasma membrane electron transport.
- This inhibition was reversed by coenzyme Q10.
Conclusions:
- Coenzyme Q in the plasma membrane likely functions as a transmembrane electron carrier.
- This redox system involving coenzyme Q is implicated in the control of cell growth.
- Coenzyme Q10 plays a significant role in regulating this process.