Objectives: In hyperthyroidism, increased oxygen consumption and free radical production in the stimulated respiratory chain leads to oxidative stress. Apart from its antioxidative function, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is involved in electron transport in the respiratory chain. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a correlation between an increased respiratory chain activity and the state of CoQ10 in children with hyperthyroidism.
Methods: The CoQ10 plasma concentration was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography in 12 children with hyperthyroidism before and after treatment.
Results: In the hyperthyroid state, the plasma level of CoQ10 was significantly decreased in comparison with the level in the euthyroid state. The correction of the hyperthyroid state resulted in a normalization of the CoQ10 level.
Conclusion: Plasma CoQ10 deficiency appears to be related to the stimulated respiratory chain activity in children with hyperthyroidism.
Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel