Abstract

Objective: To determine the synergistic effects of Coenzyme Q10 and L-Carnitine for an enhanced peripheral remyelination in multiple sclerosis.
Methodology: This study used 50 rats divided into 5 groups. Group 1 received standard rodent pellet chow for 12 weeks and Groups 2 to 5 received standard rodent pellet chow mixed with 0.2% Cuprizone (CPZ) or 12 weeks. Groups 3 and 4 were administered 150 mg/kg/day CoQ10 and 100 mg/kg/day L-Carnitine respectively from the 4th week, while Group 5 was given a combination of both agents. After 12 weeks, rats were dissected, and sections of sciatic nerve were stained with H& E for schwann cell and axonal count. Toludine blue was used for myelin sheath thickness, and intensity of staining of myelin sheath was checked using Luxol fast blue. Immunohistochemistry was performed using BCl2 antibodies, and intensity of staining was used to compare groups.
Results: Myelin sheath thickness, intensity of staining of myelin sheath, Schwann cell count and axonal count improved significantly by the combination of CoQ10 & L-Car as compared to the individual agent. Immunohistochemistry also suggested better control of apoptosis by synergistic group.
Conclusion: The study provided histological evidence of

Key words: Coenzyme Q10, L-Carnitine, multiple sclerosis, peripheral remyelination.