Coenzymes

Coenzymes are organic helper molecules that assist enzymes (proteins) in catalyzing reactions efficiently. Coenzyme Q (Ubiquinone) is one such coenzyme, made of several isoprene units, and acts as an antioxidant, providing cellular stability under stress.

Types and Sources of Coenzyme Q:

• Exists in 10 forms (CoQ1 to CoQ10), each differing by the number of isoprene units.
• CoQ9 is commonly found in cereal crops like wheat, rice, oats, barley, corn, rye, millet, and also in bamboo, cinnamon, avocado, and pepper.
• CoQ10 is found predominantly in humans, especially in energy-demanding organs like the heart, and is essential for the mitochondrial electron transport chain that generates cellular energy.

Biotechnology Insight:

• Rice plants can be genetically engineered to produce CoQ10, instead of their usual CoQ9.

(Source: TH)