Platelets mitochondrial function depends on CoQ10 concentration in winter, not in spring season

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Human Physiology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Seasonal temperature variations can impact metabolic pathways, antioxidant levels, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function.
• Platelets, crucial for hemostasis, possess mitochondria and are sensitive to metabolic changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of seasonal temperature changes on human platelet mitochondrial function.
• To assess the relationship between temperature, antioxidant concentrations, and mitochondrial respiration in platelets.

Main Methods:

• High-resolution respirometry was employed to measure mitochondrial respiration and oxidative phosphorylation in platelets.
• Concentrations of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and tocopherols were quantified in platelets, blood, and plasma.
• Two groups of healthy young adults were studied: a winter group (mean temp 4.77°C) and a spring group (mean temp 24.32°C).

Main Results:

• Winter conditions showed a trend towards reduced platelet respiration and lower concentrations of CoQ10-TOTAL and α-tocopherol.
• Higher concentrations of γ-tocopherol were observed in winter.
• Platelet mitochondrial ATP production was directly dependent on CoQ10-TOTAL levels in winter, but not in spring.

Conclusions:

• Seasonal temperatures influence platelet mitochondrial respiratory function and oxidative phosphorylation, particularly concerning CoQ10-TOTAL levels at lower temperatures.
• Coenzyme Q10 supplementation could potentially enhance platelet mitochondrial ATP production during winter.
• High-resolution respirometry is a sensitive technique for detecting alterations in platelet mitochondrial function due to environmental factors.