[The influence of Q10 coenzyme on structural and functional parameters of red blood cells in elderly people].

Unlabelled: The free radical theory of aging assumes that aging process leads to lost of oxidative balance. Oxidative stress induces structural and functional changes in red blood cell. The Q10 coenzyme is known as a compound which may partially prevent those changes in erythrocytes, due to its antioxidative properties and the important role it plays in the cell. The content of the coenzyme in human body decreases with age. The aim of the research was to evaluate the degree of membrane lipid peroxidation, internal microviscosity, activity of membrane ATP-ase and oxidative damage markers of erythrocyte membrane protein in elderly people before and after Q10 coenzyme therapy.

Material And Methods: The examination was performed on 35 people. The examined group consisted of elderly people (older than 65 years old). The reference group was formed with people at the age between 51 and 59. In both groups the initial parameters of red blood cells were evaluated. In the elderly people the investigated parameters were also controlled after three and six weeks of Q10 coenzyme intake.

Results: The Q10 coenzyme supplementation in elderly people produced the increase in the -SH group contents and reduction of W/S parameter. After supplementation of Q 10 coenzyme the decrease of lipid peroxidation products and internal microviscosity of erythrocytes and increase of the activity of membrane ATP-ase (total and Na+,K+) were observed.

Conclusion: The obtained results may indicate the intensification of oxidative stress in elderly and point to beneficial effect of supplementation-metabolic therapy with Q10 coenzyme on structural and functional parameters of red blood cells in elderly people.