Co Q10 and the Eye
A search of ongoing clinical trials shows that there are presently 127 studies utilizing Coenzyme q10. Most all of them are in the areas of diseases of the heart, neurological disease, some psychological disorders, pregnancy, and statin users. There is some research looking at the role of decreasing levels of Co q10 in the retina and possible link to age related macular degeneration. The decreasing role of co q10 in energy production and free radical scavenging may be linked to the progression of macular degeneration.
Co q10 is a molecule of the ubiquinone family of compounds . The ubiquinones are substances that are found throughout the body, hence the term “ubiquitous”. It is not considered a vitamin because it can be made by the body. Coenzyme q10 is found in cell membranes, where it has two functions: (1) it is an essential compound used by the cell to form energy in the form of ATP, from carbohydrates to be used by the cell, (2) it is involved in free radical scavenging. (more…)