The Impacts of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Metabolism in Tetrahymena thermophila
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Authors
Kirby, Elizabeth
Mazkour, Elissa
Date of Issue
2024
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Subject Keywords
Other Titles
Abstract
Coenzyme Q is an integral component of the electron transport chain and functions by transporting electrons from Complexes I and II to Complex III within the inner mitochondrial membrane. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is the most common form of Coenzyme Q found in humans and is a popular homeopathic supplement that claims to improve symptoms of degenerative diseases by increasing the efficiency of mitochondrial ATP production. In order to determine whether CoQ10 increases mitochondrial efficiency in Tetrahymena thermophila, we examined changes in metabolic rate and the expression of genes associated with ATP production. To accomplish this, three independent behavioral assays were performed weekly to assess proliferation rate, energy consumption, and cilia regeneration, all of which are indicators of metabolic rate. Additionally, Reverse Transcription quantitative-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed weekly to determine the expression of AAC1 and TTHERM_00532800. The AAC1 gene encodes the ADP/ATP transmembrane transporter protein while TTHERM_00532800 encodes the Cytochrome c domain protein of the electron transport chain. As a result of CoQ10 exposure, we predicted that expression of AAC1 and TTHERM_00532800 would be upregulated in T. thermophila due to enhanced mitochondrial efficiency in ATP production. Consequently, we predicted that the CoQ10-exposed T. thermophila would demonstrate greater proliferation, increased energy consumption, and an accelerated metabolic rate.