NANP Board Practice Exam

Coenzyme Q10 plays a central role in which of the following functions?

1. Blood clotting

2. Cellular energy production

3. Immune response

4. Protein synthesis

The correct answer is: Cellular energy production

Coenzyme Q10 is essential for cellular energy production because it is a key component of the electron transport chain, which occurs in the mitochondria of cells. This process is crucial for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. Without adequate Coenzyme Q10, the efficiency of ATP production is compromised, impacting cellular function, energy levels, and overall health. In contrast, blood clotting is primarily influenced by factors such as vitamin K and various clotting proteins, rather than Coenzyme Q10. The immune response is largely mediated by the cells and molecules of the immune system, including antibodies and cytokines, and does not rely significantly on Coenzyme Q10. Protein synthesis involves ribosomes and amino acids, and while Coenzyme Q10 may play a supportive role in cellular health, it is not directly involved in the synthesis of proteins.