THE EXPRESSION OF COENZYME Q-SYNTHESIS GENES CHANGES DURING AGING

Abstract

Objectives. Coenzyme Q (Q) is essential in the activity of the electron transport. Its synthesis involves a complex of 10 different proteins. We determine the evolution of the expression of the gene involved in coenzyme Q synthesis along mouse aging. Methodology. The mRNA levels of all the known components of the coenzyme Q-synthesis machinery were analysed in different organs such as muscle, brain, kidney and liver by qPCR from mice aged 8 (young), 18 (mature) and 24 (old) months. Results. Liver showed higher changes in mRNA levels of the different components. The mRNA levels of the different components of the complex of synthesis of Q were higher in mature animals in comparison with young and old animals. When mRNAs of young and old animals were compared, only a minor decrease was found. A similar behaviour was found in kidney. In brain and muscle, changes were minor although most of the changes showed a similar pattern than in liver. Conclusions. Our results indicate that age is an important factor affecting COQ gene expression. Age influence depends on the organ studied. In general, organs from mature animals show higher levels of CoQ-gene mRNA than young and old animals.