Effect of coenzyme Q(10) on superoxide production in rats with reperfusioninjuries

We examined the effect of coenzyme Q(10) (Co Q(10)) on superoxide radical ( O-2(-)) production in a model of rat reperfusion injury. The chemiluminesce nce method using a derivative of luciferin was used to quantify O-2(-) prod uction by erythrocytes in the reperfused limb after a period of ischaemia. A total of 20 Limbs from Lewis rats were preserved at 4 degrees C in Euro-C ollins solution for 72 hours, and were grafted orthotopically to syngeneic rats by a microsurgical technique. In the treated group (n = 10), Co Q(10) (10 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally into the recipients one hour befo re reperfusion. In the control group (n = 10), the same dose of solvent was given. To measure the extent of oxidative stress, heparinised blood from t he treated and control recipients was collected before, and at 15, 30, and 60 minutes after reperfusion for the measurement of chemiluminescence. O-2( -) production in the Co Q(10)-treated group was significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). Although these findings suggest that Co Q(10 ) scavenged O-2(-) that was produced in the replanted limbs as a result of ischaemia-reperfusion injury, we should consider other possible mechanisms by which this agent may protect against ischaemia-induced reperfusion injur y.