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.