They identify the metabolic consequences caused by a coenzyme deficiency – La Vanguardia

Granada, Sep 7 (EFE).- An investigation by the University of Granada identifies the serious metabolic and pathological consequences caused by the deficiency of coenzyme Q10 in people and studies a compound of natural origin to combat them. The work, carried out by the Biomedical Research Center of the University of Granada, has tested in animals the validity of a natural compound, vanillic acid, to combat the deficiency of coenzyme Q10, an essential molecule for life that is synthesized in own cells of the organs and tissues of people. The research, developed in part by Pilar González García and Luis Carlos López García, determines that vanillic acid is capable of correcting the alterations in the “Q junction” and in the neuroinflammatory process derived from the lack of coenzyme Q10, increasing the survival of the animal model to resemble the survival of control animals. The two best-known functions of CoQ10 are its participation in the process of generating useful energy for cells and its antioxidant capacity, reports the University. The study has shown that coenzyme Q10 deficiency causes two important pathophysiological alterations: on the one hand, metabolic changes due to the modification in the functioning of what is called “Q junction”, which are a series of proteins that participate in metabolic pathways important at the cellular level. And on the other, the induction of reactive gliosis and neuroinflammation that leads to lethal encephalopathy. The work also identifies potential biomarkers that could be used in the clinic to follow the progress of the disease and evaluate the efficacy of treatments. Regarding the supplement to pharmacological doses of vanillic acid or b-resorcylic acid, two phenolic compounds of natural origin, as effective treatments for this syndrome, their potential “must in any case be evaluated in clinical practice”, the researchers conclude. EFE bol/jrr