Targeting of coenzyme Q10 via d-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate-based nanoemulsion to the heart

d-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS), a water-soluble derivative of natural vitamin E, has been intensively used in drug delivery systems. TPGS (CoQ10-NE-TPGS) and lecithin-based (CoQ10-NE-LC) coenzyme Q10-loaded nanoemulsions were prepared by hot high-pressure homogenization (HPH) and tested for their ability to target heart tissue. Both formulations yielded particles ~50nm in diameter. CoQ10 in both the formulations was in a supercooled melt state without crystallization. CoQ10-NE-TPGS more effectively delivered CoQ10 to heart tissue than CoQ10-NE-LC after intravenous administration. CoQ10 concentration in the heart was 2.8-fold higher at 5min after intravenous administration of CoQ10-NE-TPGS compared to CoQ10-NE-LC. Higher tissue levels were maintained for 90min after injection. These data suggest that CoQ10-NE-TPGS could be a potential vehicle for rapid delivery of CoQ10 to heart tissue.