Evaluation of the Antioxidant Potential of Encapsulated Coenzyme Q10, Obtained from Spinacia oleracea (Spinach), and Its Effects on Post-Infarction Cardiac Remodeling: In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches

• Grant number: 24/18002-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Marcos Ferreira Minicucci
• Grantee: Célia Cristina Malaguti Figueiredo
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FMB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a liposoluble molecule, is an essential component in cellular energy production and acts as an antioxidant in cell membranes. Its synthesis primarily occurs in the human body but can also be obtained through diet. Spinach is an excellent natural source of CoQ10, making it a viable option for obtaining this essential compound. These approaches are fundamental for enhancing the cardioprotective effects of CoQ10, particularly in post-myocardial infarction cardiac remodeling. In light of this, we propose obtaining CoQ10 from natural sources, such as spinach, and employing micro- and nanoscience techniques to improve its stability and bioavailability. This will be achieved through the production of liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) containing CoQ10. Particle characterization will be performed using zeta potential analysis, polydispersity index, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Additionally, we will evaluate the antioxidant activity of the samples through DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging tests, the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) test, and the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. The influence of CoQ10 supplementation via liposomes or SLNs on cardiac remodeling after infarction will be assessed in an experimental myocardial infarction (MI) model in rats. Three months after supplementation, the rats will undergo in vivo and in vitro functional analysis, complemented by biochemical tests on the left ventricle and the animals' microbiota. The objective of the research is to develop a method for obtaining CoQ10 from the plant source Spinacia oleracea (spinach), using an encapsulation technique with liposomes and producing solid lipid nanoparticles to enhance the stability and bioavailability of the compound. Another aim is to evaluate the antioxidant potential of CoQ10, both encapsulated and in nanoparticles, and its effects on post-infarction cardiac remodeling using in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches.