Characterization and bioavailability of a novel coenzyme Q10 nanoemulsion used as an infant formula supplement

[Display omitted] •We developed and characterized a new nanoemulsion with high CoQ10 content.•CoQ10 nanoemulsion added to the infant formula maintains its organoleptic qualities.•CoQ10 nanoemulsion demonstrated high stability and bioavailability.•No cytotoxicity was observed with the in vitro exposition to CoQ10 nanoemulsion.•CoQ10 nanoemulsion facilitates exact dosage treatment in pediatric patients.•CoQ10 nanoemulsion added to infant formula allows treatment while feeding.•The use of CoQ10 nanoemulsion avoids swallowing difficulties. Supplementation with Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), in patients with its deficiency, has greater odds of success if the treatment is carried out early with an appropriate formulation. For neonatal CoQ10 deficiency, infant formula supplementation could be an attractive option. However, solid CoQ10 cannot be solubilized or dispersed in milk matrix leading to an inefficient CoQ10 dosage and poor intestinal absorption. We developed and characterized a high-dose CoQ10 oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsion suitable to supplement infant formula without modifying its organoleptic characteristics. CoQ10 powder and soy lecithin were solubilized in an oil phase consisted of Labrasol® and LabrafacTM. The aqueous phase was Tween 80, TPGS, methylparaben and propylparaben. O/W nanoemulsion was prepared by adding dropwise the oil phase to the aqueous phase under stirring to a final concentration of CoQ10 9.5 % w/w followed by ultrasonic homogenization. Pharmacotechnical parameters were determined. This formulation resulted to be easily to be dispersed in milk matrix, stable for at least 90 days, with no cytotoxicity in in vitro assays, and higher bioavailability than CoQ10 powder. CoQ10 nanoemulsion supplementation in the infant formula facilitates the individualized administration for the child with accurate dosage, overcome swallowing difficulties and in turn could increase the treatment adherence and efficacy.