Endogenous coenzyme Q content and exogenous bioavailability in D. melanogaster

Development and aging significantly impact the cellular levels of Coenzyme Q (CoQ), which is associated with both pathological and physiological conditions. Aim of this study was to describe the CoQ status throughout the lifetime of Drosophila melanogaster, a well-established model in aging studies. CoQ₉ and CoQ distribution was analysed across different body segments and various life stages in both male and female flies. The results indicate that CoQ₉ is the predominant isoform in every phase of flies' life cycle, with the highest concentrations observed in the thorax. We noted distinct trends in CoQ distribution during aging, which varied according to sex and body segments (head, thorax, and abdomen). Supplementation with two concentrations of CoQ₉ and CoQ₁₀ (15 μM and 75 μM) for 2 weeks induced a segment- and sex-specific CoQ uptake. Although 75 μM CoQ₁₀ was more effective in modulating the CoQ status, lifelong treatment with this concentration did not affect the longevity of the flies.