Exploring the Powerhouse Antioxidants: PQQ, CoQ10, and Glutathione

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In the intricate world of antioxidants, there are a few names that stand out for their exceptional attributes. Among them are Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ), Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and Glutathione. This trio forms a vital part of our body's defense mechanism against oxidative stress and damage. Their interconnectedness and cooperative functions highlight the importance of maintaining their optimal intracellular levels for health preservation and disease prevention.

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ): The Bioactive Quinone

PQQ is a small molecule that acts as a redox cofactor to multiple enzymes. While not currently classified as a vitamin in humans, it has been found to play significant roles in the body (1). Some studies have even shown the reduction of amyloid beta plaques in the brain. These are plaques are malformed proteins that build up in the brain and lead to Alzheimer’s.

Benefits of PQQ

1. Neuroprotection: PQQ has been shown to be neuroprotective, likely due to its antioxidant properties and its ability to stimulate the growth of new mitochondria in aging cells (mitochondrial biogenesis), which is crucial for maintaining cognitive health (2).

2. Energy Generation: PQQ promotes the creation of new mitochondria, which is vital for efficient energy generation (3).

3. Antioxidant Activity: PQQ's antioxidant capacity is impressive; it's capable of performing repeated oxidation and reduction reactions, neutralizing harmful free radicals (4).

Deficiency of PQQ

As PQQ is not currently recognized as an essential nutrient, specific deficiency symptoms in humans aren't well-documented. However, studies suggest that insufficient PQQ can lead to slowed growth, compromised immunity, impaired reproductive capability, and reduced mitochondrial function (5).

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): The Cellular Energizer

CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a lipid-soluble compound found within the mitochondria of our cells. It plays a pivotal role in energy production and also functions as a powerful antioxidant (6).

Benefits of CoQ10

1. Energy Production: CoQ10 plays a crucial role in the process of oxidative phosphorylation, which is responsible for generating most of the cellular energy in the form of ATP (6).

2. Antioxidant Activity: CoQ10's antioxidant activity protects the cells from oxidative damage, which can lead to aging and disease (7).

3. Cardiovascular Health: Research shows CoQ10 may support heart health, with potential benefits ranging from reducing blood pressure to improving heart function in individuals with heart conditions (8).

Deficiency of CoQ10

CoQ10 deficiency can be caused by genetic abnormalities, mitochondrial diseases, age-related factors, and statin treatments. Symptoms can range from fatigue and muscular weakness to seizures and cognitive impairment. CoQ10 deficiency has been associated with a variety of diseases, including heart failure, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, and neurodegenerative diseases (9).

Glutathione: The Master Antioxidant

As we've mentioned earlier, Glutathione is a tripeptide comprised of the amino acids glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It's well-regarded as the body's 'master antioxidant' due to its potent antioxidative capacity (10).

(For the benefits, deficiency symptoms, and diseases related to glutathione, please refer to our other posts).

The Interplay Between PQQ, CoQ10, and Glutathione

PQQ, CoQ10, and glutathione collectively enhance the body's overall antioxidant defense. PQQ can stimulate the production of new mitochondria, where CoQ10 plays a role in energy production. This synergistic effect supports optimal cell function and energy generation. Additionally, PQQ and CoQ10, as effective antioxidants, work in tandem with glutathione to neutralize harmful reactive oxygen species (11).

These three can be obtained from PhysicianDesigned.com. For optimal well-being they should be taken every day.

Why Antioxidants?

During every cycle of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production in the mitochondria, small amounts of oxidants, also known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), are produced. This is a natural byproduct of the process of oxidative phosphorylation, where the energy from food is used to create ATP, the primary energy currency of cells.

During oxidative phosphorylation, electrons are transferred along a series of molecules known as the electron transport chain, ultimately driving the synthesis of ATP. If an electron prematurely reacts with oxygen during this process, it can form a reactive oxygen species such as superoxide (O2-) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).

While ROS can be harmful in large amounts due to their ability to damage proteins, lipids, and DNA, in small amounts they play essential roles in cell signaling and immune function. The body has various antioxidant systems, including enzymes like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and antioxidant molecules like vitamin C, glutathione, and CoQ10, to neutralize excess ROS and prevent oxidative stress and damage.

References:

(For a complete list of references, please refer to the prior responses above for glutathione).

1. Rucker, Robert, et al. "Potential physiological importance of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone." Alternative medicine review 14.3 (2009).

2. Chowanadisai, Winyoo, et al. "Pyrroloquinoline quinone stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis through cAMP response element-binding protein phosphorylation and increased PGC-1α expression." Journal of biological chemistry 285.1 (2010): 142-152.

3. Stites, Tracey, et al. "Pyrroloquinoline quinone modulates mitochondrial quantity and function in mice." The Journal of nutrition 136.2 (2006): 390-396.

4. Kumazawa, Takashi, et al. "Levels of pyrroloquinoline quinone in various foods." Biochemical journal 307.2 (1995): 331-333.

5. Harris, C. B., et al. "Dietary pyrroloquinoline quinone: growth and immune response in BALB/c mice." The Journal of nutrition 124.5 (1994): 744-753.

6. Hernández-Camacho, Juan D., et al. "Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in aging and disease." Frontiers in physiology 9 (2018): 44.

7. Littarru, Gian Paolo, and Luca Tiano. "Bioenergetic and antioxidant properties of coenzyme Q10: recent developments." Molecular biotechnology 37.1 (2007): 31-37.

8. Mortensen, Svend A., et al. "The effect of coenzyme Q10 on morbidity and mortality in chronic heart failure: results from Q-SYMBIO: a randomized double-blind trial." JACC: Heart Failure 2.6 (2014): 641-649.

9. Quinzii, Catarina M., and Michio Hirano. "Coenzyme Q and mitochondrial disease." Developmental disabilities research reviews 16.2 (2010): 183-188.

10. Forman, Henry Jay, et al. "Glutathione: overview of its protective roles, measurement, and biosynthesis." Molecular aspects of medicine 30.1-2 (2009): 1-12.

11. Packer, Lester, et al. "Molecular aspects of lipoic acid in the prevention of diabetes complications." Nutrition 17.10 (2001): 888-895.