Why Test for Coenzyme Q10?

Summary

This article illustrates that measuring both direct and indirect biomarkers of CoQ10 sufficiency in order to appropriately diagnose and treat patients, and to monitor CoQ10 administration, can markedly improve patient outcomes and prevent mitochondrial related disease. Cass Nelson-Dooley, MS, Richard S. Lord, PhD, J. Alexander Bralley, PhD, CCN

This content was created by the Metametrix Institute

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Nelson-Dooley C, Lord RS, Bralley JA, "Why Test for Coenzyme Q10?" Metametrix White Paper (PDF) 2006.

Details

There are multiple reasons for which circulating CoQ10 can be affected: use of prescription medication, poor digestion and absorption of dietary CoQ10, genetic reasons for up-regulated or down-regulated biosynthesis of CoQ10, compromised function of organs rich in mitochondria, or increased demand for ATP production such as in the case of a high performance athlete. While CoQ10 has been shown to improve a variety of clinical conditions, it may not be indicated in all patients. Testing can identify patients that are candidates for CoQ10 supplementation and help to optimize dosing by establishing the point at which a patient is replete and when dosing can be reduced. Therefore, it is important to evaluate CoQ10 production and functional need with laboratory tests as an aid in the treatment and prevention of disease.