Ubiquinone Q10, also known as coenzyme Q10, is a fat-soluble compound naturally found in almost every human cell. Its main role is to participate in the production of ATP within mitochondria – the cell’s own “power plants.” Without Q10, cellular energy metabolism would cease to function. Ageing, stress, and certain medications such as statins reduce the body’s natural synthesis of Q10, leading to mitochondrial energy deficiency and fatigue (StatPearls, 2024).
Mitochondrial vitality and energy production
Mitochondria convert nutrients into usable energy in the form of ATP. During this process, ubiquinone serves as an electron carrier in the electron transport chain. When Q10 levels are low, electron transfer becomes inefficient, reducing energy output and increasing the generation of free radicals (PubMed, 2014).
In healthy cells, ubiquinone is continuously converted into its reduced form, ubiquinol, a potent antioxidant. This ubiquinone–ubiquinol cycle forms an internal redox system that protects mitochondria from oxidative stress and maintains their functionality. A deficiency in Q10 therefore results not only in reduced energy but also in weakened antioxidant protection and increased oxidative load (PubMed 2021).
While Q10 supports cellular energy production, nervous system balance and recovery can be complemented with L-Theanine, helping to calm the mind without inducing drowsiness.
The redox system and the antioxidant role of ubiquinol
The antioxidant effect of Q10 is based on its ability to donate and receive electrons – it acts as an “electron reservoir” that regenerates other antioxidants such as vitamins E and C. This makes Q10 a vital part of the body’s integrated defense network (PubMed, 2009). It also contributes to the glutathione cycle – the body’s most important internal antioxidant system – and thus protects lipid membranes from peroxidation.
This redox system is critical for nervous and cardiac tissues, where mitochondrial density and energy demand are highest. Q10 supports neuronal metabolism and reduces oxidative damage, both of which are central to the prevention of neurodegenerative processes (PubMed, 2023).
Energy metabolism in the brain and heart
Ubiquinone has its greatest impact on tissues with continuous energy consumption – the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles. Studies have shown that Q10 supplementation improves mitochondrial performance and reduces markers of oxidative stress and fatigue. Cardiac energy metabolism is particularly dependent on adequate Q10 levels, and low concentrations have been linked to impaired myocardial performance and statin-induced side effects (PubMed, 2024).
In the nervous system, Q10 plays a role in stabilizing mitochondrial membranes and supporting neurotransmitter balance. Because of the brain’s high lipid content, it is especially prone to oxidative stress, but ubiquinol helps reduce lipid peroxidation and maintain neuronal stability. Q10’s connection to mental energy and mood regulation has also been observed in several clinical contexts, especially when combined with adaptogenic plant compounds such as Ashwagandha KSM-66 and Bacopa Monnieri.
Part of the antioxidant network
Q10 works synergistically with other antioxidants such as resveratrol, astaxanthin, NAC, and vitamin C. The redox cycle between ubiquinol and vitamin E is particularly essential – when vitamin E neutralises a free radical, ubiquinol regenerates it to its active form. At the same time, Q10 supports the recycling of glutathione and NADH, maintaining the cell’s redox balance (PubMed, 2021).
NAC (N-acetyl-L-cysteine) complements Q10 by promoting glutathione synthesis, while Q10 helps regenerate its oxidised form back into the active state. Together with Resveratrol and Astaxanthin, Q10 forms part of the body’s powerful natural antioxidant system. Resveratrol supports sirtuin activity and mitochondrial biogenesis, while astaxanthin protects lipid membranes as a fat-soluble carotenoid antioxidant.
Skin and connective tissue vitality are also connected to mitochondrial energy. In combination with Collagen + Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin C, Q10 supports cell renewal and energy metabolism in connective tissues, contributing to elasticity and structural well-being of the skin.
Learn more about the product: Ubiquinone Q10 cell protection and energy 100 mg 60 caps (Ostrovit)