Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is a lipophilic benzoquinone synthesized in all plant and animal cells. Beside its role as electron carrier in the mitochondrial respiratory chain CoQ has multiple functions in the cell. Generally it is accepted that its redox and antioxidative properties explain its therapeutic effects. More hydrophilic derivative of CoQ, idebenone, is not able to completely substitute natural CoQ. Thus new CoQ derivatives with suitable properties are developed for therapeutic use in cardiovascular or neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of our research is to study the effects of newly prepared CoQ derivatives in the reactions in which natural CoQ participates, i.e. interactions with respiratory chain complexes, mitochondrial glycerolphosphate dehydrogenase or mitochondrial transition pores. We will also check antioxidative properties of these derivatives. Our experiments will be performed on mitochondria, isolated cells and cell cultures. Major benefit of this project will be better understanding of mechanisms responsible for beneficial action of CoQ and its new derivatives. (en)
Ověřit antioxidační vlastnosti koenzymu Q a jeho nově syntetizovaných derivátů a zhodnotit jejich interakce s komplexy dýchacího řetězce, mitochondriální glycerolfosfát dehydrogenázou i póry přechodné permeability na mitochondriích a buňkách.