Clara Bernardini

Dr. Clara Bernardini


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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LCLucia Chico
Lucia Chico
PLPiervito Lopriore
Piervito Lopriore
GCGiulia Cecchi
Giulia Cecchi
AMAdriana Meli
Adriana Meli
CBClara Bernardini
Clara Bernardini
Michelangelo MancusoMichelangelo Mancuso
Michelangelo Mancuso
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) are rare disorders with limited therapeutic options. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation is widely used, although formulation differences can affect absorption and efficacy. This open-label pilot feasibility trial evaluated a food for special medical purposes (FSMP) containing high-dose CoQ10 (250 mg per capsule) in patients with PMD. Ten patients (mean age: 55.5 ± 8.6 years) were enrolled. Serum/plasma biomarkers, including CoQ10, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total sulfhydryl groups (t-SH), and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), were assessed at baseline (T0, after ≥30 days of conventional ubidecarenone) and after 30 days of FSMP administration (T1). Fatigue severity scale (FSS) and 5-times sit-to-stand test (5xSST) were evaluated at both timepoints. FSMP was administered at 250 or 500 mg/day. Twenty sex- and age-matched healthy controls were included for CoQ10 comparison. Absolute CoQ10 concentrations remained stable overall at T1, with all patients maintaining levels above 390 ng/mL (100% vs. 60% at T0), although concentrations remained lower than in healthy controls (p < 0.01). Dose-normalized CoQ10 exposure was significantly higher with FSMP versus conventional ubidecarenone (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 7.31). FGF21, GDF15, AOPP, and t-SH remained unchanged, whereas FRAP increased at T1 (p < 0.01). No significant changes were observed in 5xSST and FSS. Exploratory analyses indicated inter-individual variability in functional responses. FSMP was associated with higher dose-normalized systemic CoQ10 exposure, more consistent circulating CoQ10, and increased FRAP levels. Its simplified dosing regimen may support long-term adherence. Larger studies are warranted to validate these preliminary findings.