The long alkyl chain of this molecule allows it to be lipid soluble, which allows it to act as an electron
carrier within the phospholipid bilayer.
Other biological molecules that undergo oxidation–reduction reactions as part of their normal
function include NADH, FADH 2 , and NADPH. These molecules accept and donate electrons readily,
similar to ubiquinone, and are discussed more thoroughly in Chapters 9 and 10 of MCAT
Biochemistry Review.
MCAT Concept Check 5.3:
Before you move on, assess your understanding of the material with these questions.How are quinones generally produced?How are hydroxyquinones produced?What chemical properties of ubiquinone allow it to carry out its biological functions?