Pharma Nord (United Kingdom)

There is evidence for the involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and inflammation in the pathogenesis of obesity. This, in turn, indicates a novel potential therapeutic role for supplemental coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the management of obesity, due to the role of CoQ10 in promoting normal mitochondrial function, as an antioxidant, and as an anti-ferroptotic and anti-inflammatory agent. In the present article we have, therefore, reviewed the potential role of CoQ10 in the prevention and treatment of obesity. A potential role for supplementary CoQ10 (in combination with selenium) in preserving skeletal muscle mass in obese individuals undergoing weight loss procedures is also discussed.

Mitochondria are primary targets for environmental toxic chemicals; these typically disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain, resulting in reduced ATP production, increased reactive oxygen free radical species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress, increased apoptosis, and increased inflammation. This in turn suggests a rationale for investigating the potential role of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in mediating such chemical-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, given the key roles of CoQ10 in promoting normal mitochondrial function, and as an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory agent. In the present article, we have, therefore, reviewed the potential role of supplementary CoQ10 in improving mitochondrial function and mediating adverse effects following exposure to a number of environmental toxins, including pesticides, heavy metals, industrial solvents, endocrine-disrupting agents, and carcinogens, as well as pharmacological drugs and lifestyle toxicants.

This article focuses on the hereditary ataxias, resulting from defects in specific genes, which include the spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs), Friedreich's ataxia, and ataxia resulting from coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency. CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance that plays a key role in the biochemical process within mitochondria, supplying all cells with the energy required for normal functioning; CoQ10 is also important as an antioxidant, protecting cells (and particularly mitochondria) from free radical-induced oxidative damage. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular energy depletion have been implicated in the pathogenesis of the hereditary ataxias; this provides a rationale for dietary supplementation with CoQ10 in these disorders. The authors have therefore reviewed clinical evidence for the potential benefit of oral supplementation with CoQ10 in the hereditary ataxias. Some categories of hereditary ataxia patients have demonstrated remarkable clinical improvement following CoQ10 supplementation, especially when administered at an early stage of disease. In particular, a number of studies have demonstrated significant symptomatic benefit in patients with ataxia resulting from primary CoQ10 deficiency, following oral supplementation with CoQ10. Although there is no consensus as to the dosage of CoQ10 to be used in ataxia management, clinical studies have typically used dosages in the range 300 to 3000 mg/day. With regard to safety, CoQ10 is generally well tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported in long-term use.

It is now some 30 years since the introduction of micronutrient (antioxidant) supplementation into UK gastroenterology practice for the management of pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis. This therapeutic strategy was developed as an alternative to the use of opioids or surgery for pain relief. Supplementation comprises methionine, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, and is based on deficiencies of these nutrients identified in chronic pancreatitis and their role in protecting against free-radical-induced oxidative stress, implicated in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Four clinical trials have been carried out on this supplementation in chronic pancreatitis patients, three of which reported significant pain relief and improved quality of life. The supplementation is generally well tolerated, with no significant adverse effects reported. Several recent meta-analyses have concluded that it provides a safe and effective therapy for pain relief in patients with chronic pancreatitis. This article documents the background to this work and provides an update of recent developments in this field.

The tactile perception is essential for all types of topical formulations (cosmetic, pharmaceutical, medical device) and the possibility to predict the sensorial response by using instrumental methods instead of sensory testing would save time and cost at an early stage product development. Here, we report on an instrumental evaluation method using tactile friction measurements to estimate perceptual attributes of topical formulations. Friction was measured between an index finger and an artificial skin substrate after application of formulations using a force sensor. Both model formulations of liquid crystalline phase structures with significantly different tactile properties, as well as commercial pharmaceutical moisturizing creams being more tactile-similar, were investigated. Friction coefficients were calculated as the ratio of the friction force to the applied load. The structures of the model formulations and phase transitions as a result of water evaporation were identified using optical microscopy. The friction device could distinguish friction coefficients between the phase structures, as well as the commercial creams after spreading and absorption into the substrate. In addition, phase transitions resulting in alterations in the feel of the formulations could be detected. A correlation was established between skin hydration and friction coefficient, where hydrated skin gave rise to higher friction. Also a link between skin smoothening and finger friction was established for the commercial moisturizing creams, although further investigations are needed to analyse this and correlations with other sensorial attributes in more detail. The present investigation shows that tactile friction measurements have potential as an alternative or complement in the evaluation of perception of topical formulations.