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Quantification of Coenzyme A in Cells and Tissues
Published on: September 27, 2019
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Biosynthesis of coenzyme Q in eukaryotes.
1a Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology , Shimane University , Matsue , Japan.
Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry
|July 18, 2015
Summary
Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is vital for cellular energy production. Research in yeast and humans reveals key genes and protein structures involved in CoQ biosynthesis, advancing understanding of related genetic disorders.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is essential for ATP production via aerobic cellular respiration and acts as an electron acceptor in redox reactions.
- Studies in Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae have elucidated CoQ biosynthesis pathways, applicable to higher organisms like humans and plants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the biosynthesis of Coenzyme Q in eukaryotes.
- To compare eukaryotic CoQ biosynthesis with prokaryotic pathways.
- To highlight recent advances in human genetic disorders and protein structures related to CoQ synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on CoQ biosynthesis in eukaryotes.
- Comparative analysis of CoQ synthesis pathways in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
- Examination of genetic disorders and protein crystal structures associated with CoQ biosynthesis.
Main Results:
- Human genetic disorders linked to mutations in eight COQ biosynthetic genes have been identified.
- Crystal structures of key CoQ synthesis proteins (e.g., IspB, UbiA, Coq5, COQ9) have been determined.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding CoQ biosynthesis and its associated human diseases over the past decade.
Conclusions:
- Yeast models have been crucial for understanding human CoQ biosynthesis disorders.
- Advances in structural biology and genetics are improving insights into CoQ synthesis.
- This review consolidates current knowledge on eukaryotic CoQ biosynthesis, offering a basis for future research.
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