Ubidecenone

About This Product

The internationally recognised name for this substance is ubidecarenone, the INN for coenzyme Q10, CAS number 303-98-0. It is supplied as a yellow to orange crystalline powder, practically insoluble in water and soluble in oils and lipids, and is produced by fermentation or synthesis. Its biological role is specific and well characterised. Coenzyme Q10 sits in the inner mitochondrial membrane and shuttles electrons between complexes I and II and complex III of the respiratory chain, a step every aerobic cell depends on to generate ATP. Because it is lipid-soluble it also functions as an antioxidant within membranes, where water-soluble antioxidants cannot reach, interrupting lipid peroxidation chains. Tissue levels decline with age and are reduced by statin therapy, which inhibits the same mevalonate pathway that produces it, and those two facts underlie most supplement use. Formulation is the practical challenge: it is poorly absorbed because it is a large lipophilic molecule, so oil suspensions, solubilised and ubiquinol forms are used to improve bioavailability. It is also light-sensitive and requires protection. It is used in nutritional supplements, cardiovascular and statin-adjunct formulations, anti-ageing skin care, sports nutrition and pharmaceutical preparations. Bio Green Chem supplies ubidecarenone to specification on assay, related substances, appearance, loss on drying, residual solvents, light protection and heavy metals.