COVID19, as a lethal pandemic infection, currently has no definite treatment. Ubiquinone or Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nutrient that occurs naturally in the body. CoQ10 is also in many foods we eat. CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant, protects cells from damage and playsd an essential part in metabolism. Although CoQ10 plays a vital role in the body, most healthy people have enough CoQ10 naturally. There is some evidence that adding more –CoQ10 supplements – may be beneficial. Increasing age and some medical conditions are associated with dropping levels of CoQ10. But in these cases, it’s uncertain that adding CoQ10 will affect.
The interaction of virus-spike with ACE2 receptor leads to the down-regulation of ACE2, which could enhance the pathologic effects of AngII and disturb the AngII/Ang (1-7) ratio. It could result in a huge cytokine storm and extensive oxidative stress, which are the molecular basis of most of the complications induced by COVID19.
As no definitive treatment for the infection has been found, studies have shown some therapeutic potencies of CoQ10 against COVID-19 and similar conditions. CoQ10 is an essential cofactor in the electron transport chain of the phosphorylative oxidation system. It is a powerful lipophilic antioxidant, an anti-apoptotic, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory supplement that has been tested to manage and prevent various diseases, particularly diseases with inflammatory pathogenesis. It is a fundamental component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and acts as a potent antioxidant. CoQ10 can decrease the important inflammatory cytokines and prevent organ damage due to huge oxidative stress. Also, it can enhance endothelial functions by increasing bioavailability and strengthening non-specific immune responses. This could positively affect SARS-COV-2 patients with severe complications in their cardiovascular systems due to the SARS-COV-2 infection.
CoQ10 can also be a cardio-protective and neuroprotective agent by reducing the viral toxicity against cardiomyocytes and CNC neurons. Many researchers have suggested that acute and chronic illnesses are associated with depletion of CoQ10 level (as in a septic shock, cardiac arrest, and acute influenza infection). So, we could link the severity of SARSCOV- 2 patients with the levels of CoQ10. Besides, the mentioned inflammatory biomarkers (cytokines IL-6, IL-2, and TNF) strongly correlate with SARS-COV-2 pathogenicity. Therefore, CoQ10 is a potent anti-inflammatory agent which can reduce TNF-α, IL-6, CRP, and other inflammatory cytokines. CoQ10 could also improve the interference in the RAS system caused by COVID-19 by exerting anti-Angiotensin II effects and decreasing oxidative stress. CoQ10 can reduce oxidative stress and modulate the immunologic reactions as a neuroprotective agent.
These properties may help to reduce CNS inflammation and prevent BBB damage and neuronal apoptosis in COVID19 patients. Accordingly, CoQ10 supplementation may prevent the COVID19-induced morbidities with a potential protective role against the deleterious consequences of the disease. Thus, further clinical evaluations are encouraged.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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