Coenzyme Q10 distribution in blood is altered in patients with Fibromyalgia

ObjectiveCoenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential electron carrier in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and a strong antioxidant. Signs and symptoms associated with muscular alteration and mitochondrial dysfunction, including oxidative stress, have been observed in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). The aim was to study CoQ10 levels in plasma and mononuclear cells, and oxidative stress in FM patients.MethodsWe studied CoQ10 level by HPLC in plasma and peripheral mononuclear cells obtained from patients with FM and healthy control subjects. Oxidative stress markers were analyzed in both plasma and mononuclear cells from FM patients.ResultsHigher level of oxidative stress markers in plasma was observed respect to control subjects. CoQ10 level in plasma samples from FM patients was doubled compared to healthy controls and in blood mononuclear cells isolated from 37 FM patients was found to be about 40% lower. Higher levels of ROS production was observed in mononuclear cells from FM patients compared to control, and a significant decrease was induced by the presence of CoQ10.ConclusionThe distribution of CoQ10 in blood components was altered in FM patients. Also, our results confirm the oxidative stress background of this disease probably due to a defect on the distribution and metabolism of CoQ10 in cells and tissues. The protection caused in mononuclear cells by CoQ10 would indicate the benefit of its supplementation in FM patients.