Kaneka Ubiquinol recently highlighted the role that mitochondrial function may play in supporting fertility outcomes in men and women.

Described as a “trigenerational framework” approach by Leah Hechtman, PhD, fertility expert and member of Kaneka Ubiquinol’s scientific advisory board, women’s cellular health shapes her own fertility, but also the long-term health outcomes of future generations.

The antioxidant ubiquinol can enhance mitochondrial function, and this can play a role in supporting oocyte quality and reproductive outcomes. Each egg contains more mitochondria than any other cell type aside from neurons, and plays a role in the complex process of conception and embryo development. Mitochondrial function can decline with age or stress, leading to the decline of egg quality and fertility.

“This trigenerational approach is redefining how we understand fertility from a women’s health perspective, by tracing the mitochondrial energy that powers life across three generations of women: grandmother, mother, and child,” said Hechtman. “By supporting the integrity of this energy system in women, we are also enhancing the biological potential of future generations.”  

Ubiquinol, which is an endogenous compound, supports cellular energy production, and helps to defend against oxidative stress. Levels naturally decline, beginning at the age of 20, and in women and men, this decline can reduce the energy available to the reproductive cells that rely on it, the company noted.

New research published in the Journal of Translational Medicine shows that energy decline within the ovary is central to reproductive aging. As mitochondrial efficiency falls and oxidative stress rises, the ovary’s ability to support high-energy processes diminishes with downstream effects on oocyte quality, hormonal dynamics, and overall reproductive potential.

Similarly, sperm cells rely on mitochondrial energy to power motility and function; if mitochondrial resilience is down, it can influence time-to-pregnancy and outcomes, research has shown, suggesting that fertility isn’t solely reliant on a woman’s mitochondrial function.

“World fertility day, coming up on November 2, offers a platform to bring this groundbreaking science into everyday conversation and highlight the importance of a shared approach to reproductive health,” said Hechtman. “By understanding the science behind reproductive well-being, couples can make informed choices together that give future generations the best start.”

Holistically supporting mitochondrial health through simple lifestyle changes, like eating a nutrient-rich diet, staying active, prioritizing quality sleep, and managing stress, can all serve as a core part of reproductive wellness.

“Nurturing mitochondrial health is about supporting your body’s natural energy and resilience,” said Hechtman. “By focusing on everyday habits together, couples can give their cells the best foundation to function well, laying the groundwork that supports the potential to create new life.”