Higher levels of the lipophilic antioxidants coenzyme Q 10 and vitamin E in long-lived termite queens than in short-lived workers.

Termite queens and kings live longer than nonreproductive workers. Several molecular mechanisms contributing to their long lifespan have been investigated; however, the underlying biochemical explanation remains unclear. Coenzyme Q (CoQ), a component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, plays an essential role in the lipophilic antioxidant defense system. Its beneficial effects on health and longevity have been well studied in several organisms. Herein, we demonstrated that long-lived termite queens have significantly higher levels of the lipophilic antioxidant CoQ 10 than workers. Liquid chromatography analysis revealed that the levels of the reduced form of CoQ 10 were 4 fold higher in the queen's body than in the worker's body. In addition, queens showed 7 fold higher levels of vitamin E, which plays a role in antilipid peroxidation along with CoQ, than workers. Furthermore, the oral administration of CoQ 10 to termites increased the CoQ 10 redox state in the body and their survival rate under oxidative stress. These findings suggest that CoQ 10 acts as an efficient lipophilic antioxidant along with vitamin E in long-lived termite queens. This study provides essential biochemical and evolutionary insights into the relationship between CoQ 10 concentrations and termite lifespan extension.