Coenzyme Q10 and Its Therapeutic Potencies Against COVID-19 and Other Similar Infections: A Molecular Review.

Purpose: New lethal coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), currently, has been converted to a disastrous pandemic worldwide. As there has been found no definitive treatment for the infection in this review we focused on molecular aspects of coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) and possible therapeutic potencies of CoQ₁₀ against COVID-19 and similar infections. Methods: This is a narrative review in which we used some authentic resources including PubMed, ISI, Scopus, Science Direct, Cochrane, and some preprint databases, the molecular aspects of CoQ₁₀ effects, regarding to the COVID-19 pathogenesis, have been analyzed and discussed. Results: CoQ₁₀ is an essential cofactor in the electron transport chain of the phosphorylative oxidation system. It is a powerful lipophilic antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory supplement which has been tested for the management and prevention of a variety of diseases particularly diseases with inflammatory pathogenesis. CoQ₁₀ is a strong anti-inflammatory agent which can reduce tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)- 6, C-reactive protein (CRP), and other inflammatory cytokines. The cardio-protective role of CoQ₁₀ in improving viral myocarditis and drug induced cardiotoxicity has been determined in different studies. CoQ₁₀ could also improve the interference in the RAS system caused by COVID-19 through exerting anti-Angiotensin II effects and decreasing oxidative stress. CoQ₁₀ passes easily through blood-brain barrier (BBB). As a neuroprotective agent CoQ₁₀ can reduce oxidative stress and modulate the immunologic reactions. These properties may help to reduce CNS inflammation and prevent BBB damage and neuronal apoptosis in COVID-19 patients. Conclusion: CoQ₁₀ supplementation may prevent the COVID-19-induced morbidities with a potential protective role against the deleterious consequences of the disease, further clinical evaluations are encouraged.