Pantothenic acid deficiency and ubiquinone levels in rat liver mitochondria

Abstract

A new group of naturally occurring homologous quinones referred to as ubiquinone or coenzyme Q (Q₂₇₅) has been recognized in recent years. Structural studies have led to the characterization of these compounds as derivatives of 2, 3,-dimethoxy, 5-methyl benzoquinone, substituted at position with a polyisoprenoid side-chain. Homologues with 6-10 side-chain isoprenoid units have been identified in animal and plant tissues and in micro-organisms. While much interest has centred around its biological functions, little work has been done on the biosynthesis of ubiquinone. The incorporation of mevalonic acid into the isoprenoid chain has been recently reported. The known participation of coenzyme A and acetate in the biosynthesis of mevalonic acid prompted a study of the possible relationship of dietary pantothenic acid to tissue-levels of ubiquinone.