CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001 ] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent application Ser. No. 61 /492,940 entitled "Oral Formulations of Mitochondrial ly-Targeted Antioxidants and Their Medical Use" which was filed June 3, 201 1 . The entirety of the aforementioned application is herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This disclosure is in the fields of cell biology, pharmacolog,y and medicine, and in particular, inflammation, diabetes, septic shock, wound healing, and coronary heart disease.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Promising therapeutical properties of mitochondria-targeted antioxidants (MTAs) have been described (see, e.g., US2008176929; Skulachev et al. (2009), Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1787:437-61 ). The experiments performed which revealed these properties were done with freshly prepared solutions of MTAs and made by dissolving of ethanol stock solutions preserved at -80 °C shortly before

administration of the preparation to animals. Such method of preparation and administration is not suitable or realistic for preparation of pharma-ceuticals as it is extremely inconvenient if not impossible for industrial manufacturing, logistics, and use by patients. Attempts to develop a pharmaceutical composition (for oral administration or injection) with acceptable stability revealed that MTAs are not stable in most types of oral or injectable compositions. Stable pharmaceutical composition con-taining MTAs possessing acceptable stability have not been described up to now. Accordingly, improved liquid formulations with stability are still needed. SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure provides stabilized liquid and solid formulations comprising MTAs suitable for oral, nasal, and intravenous and injectable administration, and methods of preparation of such formulations. The invention also provides methods of treatment and prophylaxis of diseases and conditions relating to mitochondria using such formulations.

[0005] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a stabilized pharmaceutical formulation comprising a compound of Formula I in oxidized and/or reduced form.

The compound of Formula 1 is:

(1)

wherein:

A is an antioxidant of Formula II:

(II)

and/or reduced form thereof, wherein m comprises an integer from 1 to 3;

Y is independently selected from the group consisting of: lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, or two adjacent Y groups, together with carbon atoms to which they are attached, form a following structure of Formula III:

(III)

and/or reduced form thereof, wherein:

Rl and R2 are the same or different and are each independently lower alkyl or lower alkoxy; L is a linker group, comprising: a) a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain optionally substituted by one or more double or triple bond, or ether bond, or ester bond, or C-S, or S-S, or peptide bond; and which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents preferably selected from alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, keto group, amino group; or b) a natural isoprene chain; n is an integer from 1 to 20; and

B is a targeting group comprising: a) a Skulachev-ion Sk (Sk ⁺ Z ^" ) wherein: Sk is a lipophillic cation or a lipophillic metalloporphyrin, and Z is a

pharmaceutically acceptable anion; or b) an amphiphillic zwitterion,

with the proviso that in compound of Formula I, A is not ubiquinone (e.g. , 2- methyl-4,5-dimethoxy-3,6-dioxo- l ,4-cyclohexadienyl) or tocopherol or a mimetic of superoxide dismutase or ebselen; when L is divalent decyl, divalent pentyl, or divalent propyl radical; and when B is triphenylphosphonium cation.

[0006] In a particular embodiment, the composition is reduced or is oxidized. In some embodiments, the formulation is in liquid form, and in other embodiments, the formulation is in solid form.

[0007] In some embodiments the liquid formulation comprises a compound of Formula I in 10% to 100% glycerol, from about 10% to about 100% glycol, (e.g. , 1 ,2-propylene glycol) or from about 1 % to about 1 00% (absolute) ethanol. In one particular embodiment, the composition of Formula I is in about 50% 1 ,2-propylene glycol.

[0008] The disclosure also provides stabilized solid pharmaceutical formulations comprising a compound of Formula I in oxidized or reduced form, with the proviso that in compound of Formula I, A is not ubiquinone (e.g. , 2-methyl-4,5-dimetho.\y- 3,6-dioxo- l ,4-cyclohexadienyl) or tocopherol or a mimetic of superoxide dismutase or ebselen; when L is divalent decyl, divalent pentyl, or divalent propyl radical; and when B is triphenylphosphonium cation.

[0009] In one embodiment, the formulation also comprises 1 molar equivalent to 200 molar equivalents of an antioxidation agent that reduces the oxidized form of the compound of Formula 1 , and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

[0010] In some embodiments, the antioxidation agent is ascorbic acid. [0011 ] In some embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprises sorbite, glucose, and/or magnesium stearate.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical formulation is SkQl or SkQl H ₂ . In other embodiments, the compound is SkQRl or SkQRl H ₂ . In yet other embodiments, the compound is SkQ3 or SkQ3H ₂ . In still other embodiments, the compound is SkQRB or SkQRBH ₂ . In other embodiments, the compound is SkQB l or SkQB l H ₂ . In yet other embodiments, the compound is SkQBPl or SkQBPl H ₂ .

[0013] In other aspects, the disclosure provides methods of treating and prevent ing diabetes type I and II, inflammation, septic shock, arthritis, and coronary heart disease, and methods of aiding in wound healing. In these methods, a

therapeutically effective amount of a formulation comprising a stabilized compound of Formula I in liquid or solid form is administered to a patient, with the proviso that in compound of Formula I, A is not ubiquinone (e.g., 2-methyl-4,5-dimethoxy-3,6- dioxo-l ,4-cyclohexadienyl) or tocopherol or a mimetic of superoxide dismutase or ebselen; when L is divalent decyl, divalent pentyl, or divalent propyl radical, and when B is triphenylphosphonium cation.

[0014] In some embodiments of the method, the formulation comprises glycerol, glycol, and/or ethanol. In some embodiments, the formulation comprises SkQ l , SkQ l H ₂ , SkQRl , SkQRl H , SkQ3, SkQ3H ₂ , SkQBPl , SkQBPl H ₂ , SkQRB, or SkQRBH ₂ .

[0015] In some embodiments, the liquid formulation is administered orally or by injection. In other embodiments, the solid formulation is administered orally, anally, or vaginally. In some embodiments the formulation is a solid and comprises ascorbic acid. In particular embodiments, the formuilation also comprises a pharmacetucally acceptable carrier.

[0016] In some embodiments, diabetes type I or II is treated with SkQ l or SkQ l H ₂ in 20% glycerol.

[0017] In certain embodiments, arthritis is treated with a formulation comprising SkQl or SkQl H ₂ in 20% glycerol. In yet other embodiments, arthritis is treated with a formulation comprising SkQl and ascorbic acid. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018J The foregoing and other objects of the present disclosure, the various features thereof, as well as the invention itself may be more fully understood from the following description, when read together with the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Figure 1 is a graphic representation of the effect of SkQl on blood glucose level of diabetic animal model (alloxan-treated mice);

[0020] Figure 2 is a graphic representation of the effect of SkQl on liver damage of db/db diabetic mice;

[0021] Figure 3a is a graphic representation illustrating the effect of SkQl on epithelization of diabetic wounds;

[0022] Figure 3b is a graphic representation illustrating the effect of SkQl on the amount of neutrophils in diabetic wounds;

[0023] Figure 3c is a graphic representation illustrating the effect of SkQl on vessel density in diabetic wounds;

[0024] Figure 4 is a graphic representation of the effect of SkQl on survival of mice subjected to septic shock;

[0025] Figure 5 is a graphic representation demonstrating the anti-inflammatory effect of SkQl in collagen-induced arthritis in rats;

[0026] Figure 6 is a graphic representation demonstrating the anti-inflammatory effect of SkQl and SkQRl rescuing endothelial cells from death induced by proinflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha;

[0027] Figure 7a is a graphic representation demonstrating the ability of SkQ l to inhibit inflammation in vitro by lowering expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines; and

[0028] Figure 7b is a graphic representation demonstrating the ability of SkQ l to inhibit inflammation in vivo by lowering expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines as measured by relative ICAM-1 mRNA expression in mice. DESCRIPTION

[0029] Throughout the text of a description of the invention various documents are cited. Each document cited here (including all patents, patent applications, scientific publications, specifications and manufacturer's instructions etc.), above or below, is introduced in full in this invention by reference.

[0030] Prior to the detailed description of the invention follows, one should understand that the invention is not limited to the particular methodology, protocols, and reagents described here, as they are subject to change. In addition, it should be understood that in the present invention, the terminology is used to describe particular embodiments only and does not limit the scope of the present invention which will be limited only by the appended claims. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used here have the same meanings that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0031] It was unexpectedly found that many effective MTAs are not stable enough in usual liquid and solid pharmaceutical formulations suitable for their

administration by injection, or by oral, IV, nasal, topical, or enteral administration. This feature limits clinical application of pharmaceuticals based on MTA as active compounds.

I. Stabilized Formulations

[0032] The present disclosure provides stable, liquid, MTA-based pharmaceutical compositions applicable in clinical practice. A useful MTA is a compound of Formula I in oxidized and/or reduced form.

The compound of Formula I is:

(I)

wherein:

A is an antioxidant of Formula II:

(N)

and/or reduced form thereof, wherein m comprises an integer from 1 to 3;

Y is independently selected from the group consisting of: lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, or two adjacent Y groups, together with carbon atoms to which they are attached, form a following structure of Formula III:

(III) and/or reduced form thereof, wherein:

R l and R2 are the same or different and are each independently lower alkyl or lower alkoxy;

L is a linker group, comprising: a) a straight or branched hydrocarbon chain optionally substituted by one or more double or triple bond, or ether bond, or ester bond, or C-S, or S-S, or peptide bond; and which is optionally substituted by one or more substituents preferably selected from alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, keto group, amino group; or b) a natural isoprene chain; n is an integer from 1 to 20; and

B is a targeting group comprising: a) a Skulachev-ion Sk: (Sk ⁺ Z ^" ), wherein: Sk is a lipophillic cation or a lipophillic metalloporphyrin, and Z is a

pharmaceutically acceptable anion; or b) an amphiphillic zwitterion, with the proviso that in compound of Formula I, A is not ubiquinone (e.g., 2-methy 1-4,5- dimethoxy-3,6-dioxo- l ,4-cyclohexadienyl) or tocopherol or a mimetic of superoxide dismutase or ebselen; when L is divalent decyl, divalent pentyl, or divalent propyl radical; and when B is triphenylphosphonium cation, with the proviso that in compound of Formula I, A is not ubiquinone (e.g., 2-methyl-4,5-dimethoxy-3,6- dioxo- l ,4-cyclohexadienyl) or tocopherol or a mimetic of superoxide dismutase or ebselen; when L is divalent decyl, divalent pentyl, or divalent propyl radical; and when B is triphenylphosphonium cation.

[0033] Specific useful MTAs include, but are not limited to, the SkQl and SkQRl :

SkQRl

and their reduced (quinole) forms SkQl H ₂ and SkQRl H ₂ , respectively. These

MTAs have been described in PCT RU2006/000394.

[0034] Other useful MTA variants include, but are not limited to SkQ3:

SkQ3 and its reduced (quinole) form SkQ3H ₂ ;

to SkQRB:

SkQRBH ₂ and its oxydized (quinone) form SkQRB; to SkQBl:

[0035] These MTAs are formulated for oral administration as liquid solutions and as solid formulations.

|0036J Liquid solutions are also useful for aerosol delivery via injection, for IV administration, nasal administration, topical administration, or enteral

administration.

[0037] Such stable liquid formulations include one or more solvents or soluble components into which the MTAs are placed. Useful solvents include glycerol, ethanol, propyleneglycol, and analogous compounds. For example, useful stable formulations contain at least 10% 1 ,2-propylene glycol, at least 1 % or at least 10% ethanol, at least 1 0% glycerol, or mixtures thereof, which may also include water, glycerol, ethanol, and/or 1 ,2-propylene to make up the difference. For example, representative stabilizing solutions of 1 nM to 1 mM SkQl , SkQl H ₂ , SkQR l , SkQRl H ₂ , SKQ3, SkQ3H _2, SKQRB, SkQRBH _2, SKQB l , SkQB l H ₂ , SKQBP l and/or SkQBP l H _2, contain 10% to 50%, 50% to 100%, 10% to 20%, 20% to 30%, 30% to 40%, 40% to 50%, 50% to 60%, 60% to 70%, 70% to 80%, 80% to 90%, 10% to 100%, 20% to 80%, and 90% to 100% 1 ,2-propylene glycol, glycerol, or ethanol. Other useful percentages of such solvents include 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, and 95%. Other

pharmaceutically acceptable carriers may also be components of such formulations. [0038] Because MTAs are not shelf-stable for long periods of time, various compounds were tested to determine their ability to stabilize SkQl and SkQRl as representative MTAs in dry form.

[0039] Beta-cyclodextrin, gun-arabic, fruit fibers, and sodium chloride did not provide suitable stabilization levels (degradation rate, %/d was 0.8 to 8.1 ).

|0040] Liquid solvents were also tested for their ability to stabilize representative MTAs SkQl and SkQRl . The solvents tested were water solutions of glycerol ( 10% to 100%), 50% lactulose, and 1 ,2-propylene glycol (10% to 100%, at 60 °C). Some representative results are shown below (Table 1 ).

Table 1

Table 1 (continued)

[0041] These results illustrate high stability of MTAs in a pharmaceutical composition for administration in the form of solution in glycerol (from about 10% to about 100% glycerol), and about 50% 1 ,2-propylene glycol solution.

[0042] In addition, the stability of SkQl and SkQRl was significantly increased in dark plastic or glass vials, indicating that these compounds are light-sensitive. Accordingly, one of the ways to further improve or increase stability of SkQ liquid compositions during storage and transportation is to protect it from light.

[0043] When SkQ compounds of Formula 1 according to the disclosure are in solid form, they may be stabilized, for example, with an antioxidation agent. Such an agent can be ascorbic acid. Useful amounts of ascorbic acid range from about 1 molar equivalent to about 200 molar equivalents. As used herein, the term "molar equivalent" refers to the number of dissolved part icles, or that amount which reacts with, or supplies one mole of FT" in an acid-base reaction, or which reacts or supplies one mole of electrons in a redox reaction. Other useful components of

representative stabilized MTA formulations are shown in Table 2. Such

formulations may also comprise pharmaceutically acceptable carriers such as, but not limited to, sorbite, glucose, and magnesium stearate.

[0044] Another approach to stabilize an SkQ compound in a pharmaceutical formulation is to use its reduced (quinole) form. For example, the reduced form of SkQl is the quinole SkQl H ₂ :

SkQlH ₂ (quinole form). where Z ^" is pharmaceutically acceptable anion such as, but not limited to, bromide, chloride, or ascorbate. In a dry or soluble pharmaceutical composition SkQl H ₂ can be stabilized and protected from oxidation by a reducing agent such as, but not limited to, ascorbate.

[0045] Yet another approach to improve stability is to place the MTA, in reduced or oxidized form, in a "softgel" formulation, which is a gelatin-based capsule with a liquid filling. Softgel formulations of MTAs provide good bioavailability as the softgel dissolves in aqueous-miscible, oily liquid carriers such as mono- and digycerides of capric/caprylic acid (Capmul MCM), Miglyol oil 8122 (medium chain triglycerides). When the softgel is released in the body, it gets emulsified and provides drug dispersion at a high surface area.

[0046] Mono- and digycerides of capric/caprylic acid (Capmul MCM), Miglyol oil 8122 (medium chain triglycerides) can be used. Such oily carriers as they become part of a self-emulsifying system. Other exemplary stabilizing components are vitamin E/polyethylene glycol succinate, sorbitan monooleate, labrasol, and combinations thereof. Additionally, based on its oxidation potential, tocopherol, butylayed hydroxytoluene, and/or butylated hydroxy anisole can be included in the composition as an antioxidant.

[0047] Another approach for increasing stabilization of MTAs in solution is to create a nanosuspension of MTA (< 1000 nm) stabilized with, e.g., vitamin

E/polyethylene glycol succinate. Netzsch wet milling (http://www.net.zsch- grinding.com) can be used to achieve this nanosuspension. [0048] Additionally, ethanol solutions of reduced MTA (such as SkQ l H ₂ ) can be mixed with the asorbic and acid dried to create resulting solid or powder that is stable for several months.

[0049] Stable formulations in the form of oral tablets can be prepared by hot melt extrusion. This melt granulation technique maintains the polymorphic stability of the drugs and significantly improve their oral bioavailability. It can be achieved by co-blending the MTAs with macrogols (e.g., polyethylene glycols 3350, 6000, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, hydroxy propyl cellulose and Vitamin E TPSG) through a hot melt extruder, and compressing the resulting granulation into tablets or encapsulting into hard gelatin capsules.

[0050] Representative stable liquid and solid oral SkQl formulations are shown below (Table 2):

Table 2

Oxidized SkQl

Solutions:

SkQ 1 in 20% (wt %) glycerol, prepared with phosphate buffer

SkQl in 50% (wt %) 1,2-propylene glycol with pyruvic acid

SkQl in 50% (wt %) 1,2-propylene glycol with lactic acid

Solid compositions:

SkQl with PEG-4000

SkQl with dextran

SkQl with p-aminobenzoic acid (p-ABA)

SkQl with dextran and p-ABA

SkQl with myoinosite

SkQl with pyruvic acid and Pearlitol 200

SkQl with pyruvic acid and microcrystalline cellulose

SkQl with pyruvic acid and F-Melt C

SkQl with pyruvic acid and Syloid FP

SkQl with citric (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine) and Pearlitol 200 SkQl with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine) and

crocrystalline cellulose

SkQl with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine) and F-Melt C SkQl with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine) and Syloid FP

SkQl H, (reduced form)

Solutions:

SkQlH ₂ (0.11M) with ascorbic acid (10 eq) in 55% EtOH

SkQlH ₂ (7.4 mM) with ascorbic acid (5 eq) and sorbite (20 wt parts) in 30%

1,2-propylene glycol

Solid compositions:

SkQlH2 (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (>2 molar eq) with PEG-4000

SkQlH2 (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (>2 molar eq) with dextran

SkQIH2 (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (>10 molar eq) with PEG-4000

SkQlH2 (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (>10 molar eq) with dextran

SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with sorbite (30 wt parts)

SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and sorbite (30 wt parts)

SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and glucose (10 wt parts) SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and lactose monohydrate (10 wt parts)

SkQlH ₂ (I eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and Pearlitol 200 (30 wt parts) SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and microcrystalline cellulose (30 wt parts)

SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and F-Melt C (30 wt parts) SkQlH ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and Syloid FP (30 wt parts) [0051] SkQl H ₂ in the from of light powder was prepared to almost a 100% yield by the reduction of SkQl with ascorbic acid or any other suitable reducing agent in alcohol/water mixture followed by isolation by either extraction with chloroform or any other suitable solvent, or by precipitation from water followed by centrifugal separation, or by column (silica gel) chromatography or by method HPLC RP. The isolated material was characterized by 1 H NMR, LC MC and elemental analysis data.

[0052] The sample was proved to have excellent stability for 1 month at RT or several months at 4 °C in darkness under inert atmosphere without any humidity access (Table 17). The sample also can be stabilized by being dissolved in any deoxygenated anhydrous and aprotic solvents. The reduced form of SkQl H ₂ quickly oxides to the original form of SkQl when exposed to air or wet atmosphere or dissolved in water or any protonic solvent

(Table 18).

[0053] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in solid compositions is strongly dependent on dryness of the composition as well as dryness of excipients and other components. Humidity of ambient atmosphere and presence of air also play a crucial role in oxidation of SkQl H ₂ into SkQl followed by degradation of the latter.

II. Treatments

[0054] In vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrate the ability of MTAs including, but not limited to, SkQl and SkQRl , to prevent and treat diabetes and disorders related to diabetes (Example 2). Such in vivo and in vitro experiments also demonstrate that liquid solutions of MTAs, including but not limited to SkQl and SkQRl, can be used for prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases and related conditions such as septic shock and/or systemic. For example, these MTA- based liquid formulations with acceptable stability combined with results showing efficacy in models of diabetes, inflammation, septic shock, and related disorders (Examples 2-7).

[0055] SkQl treatment also prevented disassembling of intracellular contacts and cytoskeleton reorganization caused by TNFa (data obtained by misroscopy studies of VE-cadherin, beta-cathenin and F-actin). Thus, SkQl was shown to be effective in protecting endothelial cells against the cytokine-caused dysfunction of endothelial barrier, and thus can be used for prevention and treatment of many pathological conditions including diabetes, atherosclerosis, aging, and chronicle inflammatory diseases.

[0056] Additionally, SkQl decreases the phosphorylation and degradation of IkBa caused by TNFa. NF B is known to be permanently active in many inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, sepsis, gastritis, asthma and atherosclerosis (Monaco et al. (2004) PNAS., 101 :5634-9). SkQl was shown to prevent activation of NFKB, a key inhibitor of NFKB activity associated with elevated mortality, especially from cardiovascular diseases (Venuraju et al. (2010) J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., 55:2049-61). In addition, SkQl was shown to prevent translocation of transcription factor p65 (RelA) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, thereby potentially decreasing pathological consequences.

(0057] Reference will now be made to specific examples illustrating the invention. It is to be understood that the examples are provided to illustrate certain

embodiments and that no limitation to the scope of the invention is intended thereby.

EXAMPLES EXAMPLE 1

Stable Formulations of Reduced Form of SkQl (SkOl HV)

[0058] SkQl H ₂ , a reduced quinole form of SkQ, was prepared as follows: 10 ml SkQl H ₂ solution (with concentration 1 mg/ml) in ethanol was thoroughly mixed with 200 mg ascorbic acid and then vaccum dryed. The resulting powder contained 95% ascorbic acid and 5% SkQl H ₂ , and demonstrated acceptable stability at several storage temperatures. For example, in the accelerated decay experiment, SkQ l purity was reduced from initial 98.7% to 95.1 % after storage for 12 d at 60 °C. From these results it can be calculated that storage for 1 year at 4 °C will result in approximately 3.5% loss from the initial concentration of the active compound SkQl which has acceptable stability. [0059] Alternatively, a dry mixture of SkQl H ₂ and ascorbic acid is prepared by dissolving 10 mg SkQl H ₂ in 10 ml ascorbic acid solution (20 mg/ml) and dried under vacuum.

[0060] Yet another way to prepare an SkQl- ascorbic acid mixture is to mix 5 ml SkQl H ₂ solution in ethanol (2 mg/ml), with 5 ml ascorbic acid solution in water (40 mg/ml), and vacuum dry. The reduced form of SkQH ₂ is stabilized in ascorbic acid solution, eliminating the drying stage, and thus the corresponding liquid

formulation.

EXAMPLE 2

Effect of Liquid MTA Formulations on Diabetes

A. Alloxan Animal Studies

[0061 J Alloxan is a well-known diabetogenic agent widely used to induce type 2 diabetes in animals (Viana et al. (2004) BMC Pharmacol., 8:4-9).

[0062] Induction of the alloxan diabetes was performed as follows: Two groups of laboratory rats (20 animals in each group) with free food and water access fed a 250 nM solution of SkQl for 10 d. The daily rat consumption was 60 ml water solution (containing 15 nmoles SkQl ). The average weight of rats was 300 g. Thus, rats consumed approximately 50 nmol/kg body weight per day. Two other groups of animals did not receive SkQl . After 10 d, rats were subcutaneously (in the area of the thigh) injected with alloxan dissolved in isotonic salt solution of 0.9% w/v of NaCl (100 mg/kg body weight; groups "Alloxan + SkQl " and "Alloxan." Control animals were injected with salt solution without alloxan (groups "Control + SkQl " and "Control"). After injection, the rats continued to drink water containing SkQl (250 nM) during 14 d (group "Alloxan + SkQl ") or were kept without SkQl (group "Alloxan").

[0063] Data on glucose blood level was measured by the glucose oxidase method (Saifer et al. ( 1958) J. Lab. Clin. Med., 51 :445-460) after 2 weeks of alloxan injection. The results are presented in Fig. 1. All data are presented as the mean +/- SE.

[0064] Animals consuming SkQl after alloxan injection had about 2-fold lower blood glucose compared to mice without SkQl treatment. [0065] These results demonstrate that stabilized MTAs, e.g. SkQl , are useful for the prevention and treatment of diabetes mielitus and its complications.

(0066] In another experiment, 200 g to 250 g Wistar male rats (age 7 to 8 weeks) were divided into 3 groups, 12 to 15 animals each and were injected with alloxan 125 mg kg intraperitoneal ly (i.p.) after overnight fasting. Control animals were injected with saline (0.9% NaCl). The stabilized formulation (1% ethanol, 5 ml/kg) and SkQl H ₂ (5 eq ascorbic acid, 30 wt parts sorbite) in a dosage of 1250 nmol/kg was administered intragastrically (i.g.) by gavage once daily for 2 weeks before and 1 week after alloxan administration. Blood samples from tail vein were collected after overnight fasting and glucose levels were measured before alloxan administration and 1 d, 2 d, 3 d, and 7 d later by the conventional giucose-oxidase method. Seven days after alloxan administration rats were subjected to a glucose tolerance test. Rats were given glucose 3 g kg i.g. Blood glucose levels were measured before glucose injection and 15 min, 30 min, 60 min, and 90 min later.

[0067] The following results were obtained (Table 3):

Table 3

B. Diabetic Mouse Studies

[0068] Mice carrying mutation in leptin receptor gene (C57BL S-Leprdb/J mice, or db/db mice) are known to be affected by glucose metabolic disorders. These mice are used as type II diabetes model with many of the characteristics of human disease including hyperphagia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, progressive obesity (Hummel et al. (1966) Science, 153: 1 127-1 128).

[0069] SkQl in 20% glycerol, as described below in Example 8 (250 nmol/kg per day) was orally administered to 10 to 12 week old homozygous db/db mice (n = 8), while vehicle db/db (n = 8) and non-diabetic control heterozygous db/++ (n = 5) mice for 12 weeks. The hepatic TBA-reactive substance content (MDA) was determined by assay according to the method of Mihara et al. (( 1978) Anal.

Biochem., 86:271-278).

[0070] As shown in Fig. 2, elevated glucose levels induce oxidative stress reflected by the increased MDA levels in the liver of db/db mice. The increase of MDA level reflects stimulation of lipid peroxidation which in turn is considered responsible for the impairment of endothelial cells, capillary permeability, and fibroblast and collagen metabolism, major factors of pathologies associated with diabetes. The stabilized solution of SkQl significantly lowered MDA levels in the liver of diabetic db/db mice, thus indicating decreased rate of lipid peroxidation and decreased damage of the liver.

EXAMPLE 3

Effect of Stabilized MTA on Wound Healing

[0071] Wound healing was studied in two series using 6 months old C57BLKS- Leprdb/J mice (db/db) homozygous and heterozygous C57BL S-Leprdb/J mice (db/+) mice. These mice are used as type II diabetes model with impaired wound healing (Michaels, et al. (2007) Wound Repair and Regeneration, 15:665-670).

[0072] The mice were daily administered 250 nmol/kg body weight per day with the pharmaceutical form of SkQl in 20% glycerol as described in Example 8) during period of time from 10 weeks to 12 weeks. Control groups of db/db and db/+ mice were not treated with SkQl . Full-thickness dermal wounds were made under anesthesia of ketamine (80 mg/kg). Animals were kept in plastic cages under standard temperature, light, and feeding regimes. 7 days after wounding, animals were sacrificed by decapitation. The wounds were excised, fixed in 10% formalin in standard PBS buffer, histologically processed, and embedded in paraffin.

Histological sections of central part of the wounds were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The sections were immunohistochemically stained for markers of endothelial cells (CD31), macrophages (f4/80), and myofibroblasts (smooth muscle a-actin). ImageJ software (National Institutes of Health (NIH) httpi/rsb.infOinih.gov/ij ) was used to calculate total amount of cells, number of neutrophils, macrophages and vessel density (vessel area/granulation tissue area* 100) on the microphotographs of wound sections. For each animal 100 mm ² of section area was analyzed. Wound epithelization rate was assessed in % as ratio of epithelized wound area to total wound area on tissue section * 100. For statistical analysis nonparametric Mann- Whitney U-test was used. Data are shown as means ± S.E.M.

[0073] As shown in Figs. 3a, 3b and 3c, the stabilized pharmaceutical form of SkQl is able to accelerate wound healing by decreasing neutrophil infiltration, increasing vascularization, and increasing the rate of epithelization in diabetic mice.

EXAMPLE 4

Effect of Stabilized MTA on Inflammation and Septic Shock

[0074] Septic shock is known to activate numerous inflammatory pathways in an organism leading to death. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced septic shock mouse is widely accepted model in pharmacological and biological research (Villa et al. (2004) Meth. Molec. Med, 98: 199-206).

[0075] Induction of the septic shock was performed as follows: 43 male BALB/c mice with free food and water access were divided onto 4 experimental groups. Group " " got water without drugs. Groups "SkQ 50," "SkQ 250," and "SkQ 1250" were daily parenterally treated with pharmaceutical form of SkQl in water comprising 50 nmol/kg, 250 nmol/kg, and 1250 nmol/kg accordingly. After 3 weeks of SkQl treatment animals were intraperitonially injected with 250 mg/kg LPS and 700 mg/kg D-galactosamine (D-GalN) inducing septic shock leading to death of 50% of untreated control animals (LD50 dose). Death of animals were registered after 4 d of septic shock induction.

[0076] The results of the experiment are shown on Fig. 4. The survival of mice following LPS/D-GalN treatment was significantly improved by SkQ l . The statistically significant effect was shown for a dose of 50 nmol/kg (p = 0.03).

[0077] These results clearly indicate that SkQ l acts as an anti-inflammatory agent having a therapeutic application for septic shock treatment.

[0078] In other studies, BALB/c mice with free food and water access are divided onto 4 experimental groups. Group " " receive 20% glycerol without drugs. Groups "SkQ 50," "SkQ 250," and "SkQ 1250" are daily parenterally treated with pharmaceutical form of SkQ l in 20% glycerol (Example 8) comprising 50 nmol/kg, 250 nmol/kg, and 1250 nmol/kg accordingly. After 3 weeks of SkQ l treatment animals are intraperitonially injected with 250 mg/kg LPS and 700 mg/kg D- galactosamine (D-GalN) inducing septic shock leading to death of 50% of untreated control animals (LD50 dose). Death of the animals is registered after 4 d of septic shock induction.

EXAMPLE 5

Effect of Stabilized MTA on Arthritis

[0079] The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was used to examine the susceptibility of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to treatment with potential anti-arthritic agents (Griffiths et al. (2001 ) Immunol. Rev., 184: 172-83).

[0080] Thirty Wistar rats with free food and water access were injected with complete Freund adjuvant and 250 mg type II collagen to induce CIA. Starting from 14 d and from 24 d after injection, two groups of 10 animals in each were daily fed with pharmaceutical form of SkQ l in water comprising 250 nmol/kg body weight per day (groups "SkQl from day 14" and "SkQ l from day 24"; Group "Control" received water without drugs).

[0081] As shown in Fig. 5, SkQ l reduced the number of animals with apparent inflammation, i.e. animals with increased paw volumes measured by water manometry compared to control group. Hence, SkQl possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects. [0082] In other studies, Wistar rats with free food and water access are injected with complete Freund adjuvant and 250 mg type II collagen to induce CIA. Starting from 14 d and from 24 d after injection, two groups of animals in each are daily fed with pharmaceutical form of SkQl in 20% glycerol (Example 8) comprising 250 nmol/kg body weight per day (groups "SkQ l from day 14" and "SkQl from day 24"; Group "Control" received water without drugs).

EXAMPLE 6

Effect of Stabilized MTA on Inflammation Associated

With Coronary Heart Disease

[0083] Intense cytokine production induced by inflammation may lead to death of endothelial cells which, along with increased oxidative stress and vascular inflammation, leads to endothelial dysfunction and increases the risk for coronary artery disease.

[0084] Human endothelial cell line EA.hy926 (ATCC Collection; catalog number CRL-2922) was used as a model of vascular endothelium. This cell line is similar to primary HUVEC cell line (Edgell et al. ( 1983) PNAS, 80(12):3734-7; Edgell et al. ( 1990) In Vitro Cell Dev Biol. , 26( 12): 1 167-72) and widely used as a relevant model for inflammation studies (Riesbeck et al. (1998) Clin. Vaccine Immunol., 5 :5675- 682).

[0085] Accordingly, human endothelial cells EA.hy926 were pre-incubated with 0.2 nM SkQRl or 2 nM SkQ l solution in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) supplemented with 10% of fetal serum (Example 1 ) for 4 d. After that the cells were incubated overnight with fresh DMEM medium with 0.2% of fetal serum. The cells were incubated 2 d with TNF-a (0.25 ng/ml to 50 ng/ml) and cell death was monitored using standard MTT test (Berridge et al. ( 1996) Biochemica, 4: 14-9). The data from this assay is shown as means ± S.E. at least for 3 separate

experiments.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 6, both SkQ l and SkQRl greatly reduced cell death compared to control without MTA. Thus, SkQl and SkQRl were shown to be effective substance protecting endothelial cells against cytokine's inflammatory action and can be used for prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease including atherothrombosis. EXAMPLE 7

Effect of Stabilized MTA on Vascular Dysfunction

A. In vitro Studies

[0087] Inflammatory cytokines induce expression of ICAM-1 (Inter-Cellular Adhesion Molecule 1). ICAM-1 is a key molecule functioning in intercellular adhesion process and transmigration of leukocytes across vascular endothelia during inflammatory response. Expression of ICAM-1 , as well as inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 and IL-8, is elevated under many pathological conditions including diabetes, atherosclerosis, aging, and chronicle inflammatory diseases.

[0088] The effects of SkQl on ICAM- 1 mRNA expression and cytokines (IL-6, IL-8) protein secretion induced by TNF-a in EAhy926 human endothelial cells (ATCC collection; catalog number CRL-2922) were examined. TNF-a is a central proinflammatory cytokine stimulating expression of cell adhesion molecules and many inflammatory cytokines. Anti-inflammatory properties of many drugs often rely on their ability to inhibit expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines induced by TNF-a using EAhy926 endothelial cells (Edgell et al. (1983) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 80:3734-7; Lombardi et al. (2009) Eur. J. Cell. Biol., 88:731 -42; Manea et al. (2010) Cell Tissue Res., 340:71-9).

[0089] 300,000 cells were plated on 60 mm ² culture dishes and after attachment were treated with an SkQl solution (0.2 nM in DMEM medium with 10% fetal serum) for 4 d, and then stimulated with TNF-a (0.05 ng/ml for 4 h for ICAM-1 or 5 ng/ml for 15 h for cytokines, respectively). ICAM- 1 mRNA expression was determined by real-time PCR (Okada et al. (2005) Invest. Ophtalmol. Vis. Sci., 46:4512-8 ). Secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 was evaluated by ELISA (Toma et al. (2009) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 390:877-82; Volanti et al. (2002)

Photochem. Photobiol., 75:36-45.) The data is shown as means ± S.E. at least for 3 separate experiments.

[0090] The results shown in Fig. 7a confirm SkQl to be and effective vascular anti-inflammatory substance that prevents excessive expression of inflammatory cytokines and ICAM- 1. Thus, MTAs are useful for prevention and treatment of vascular pathologies including atherosclerosis. B. In vivo Studies

[0091] As described above in Example 7A, above, the expression of ICAM- 1 is elevated under many pathological vascular conditions. SkQ l efficacy in reducing ICAM- 1 expression in vivo was tested on mice. 30 hybrid male C57Black/CBA mice were divided into 3 experimental groups ( 10 animals in each group) at the beginning of the experiment. The group "Young mice" included mice at the age of 6 months. Groups "Old mice" and "Old mice, SkQ l " included mice at the age of 24 months. The group "Old mice, SkQl " had free access to drinking water with 100 nM water-dissolved SkQl per 1 kg of body weight for 7 months. After this period, the animals were decapitated. Aortas were excised, and total RNA was isolated using DNeasy Blood and Tissue kit (QIAGEN), reverse-transcribed into cDNA, and used for quantitative real-time PCR analysis of ICAM- 1 mRNA level. For the normalization procedure the average geometry of expression levels of housekeeping genes GAPDH and RPL32 was used Data are shown as means ± S.E.M.

[0092] As shown on Fig.7b, SkQ l significantly lowered ICAM- 1 mRNA levels in treated old mice compared to the control group and approaches the level of ICAM- 1 in young mice.

[0093] The results demonstrate that SkQl prevents the age-related increase of ICAM- 1 expression in the vascular endothelium. Thus, SkQ l can be used for prevention of age-related vascular pathologies including atherosclerosis.

[0094] In other studies, hybrid male C57Black/CBA mice are divided into 3 experimental groups, "young," "old," and "old mice, SkQl ," as described above. The third group receives SkQ l in 20% glycerol comprising 250 nmol/kg body weight per day dose up to 7 months. The "old" group is the control and receives glycerol without drugs. After this period, the animals are decapitated. Aortas are excised, and total RNA is isolated using DNeasy Blood and Tissue kit (QIAGEN), reverse-transcribed into cDNA, and used for quantitative real-time PCR analysis of ICAM- 1 mRNA level. For the normalization procedure the average geometry of expression levels of housekeeping genes GAPDH and RPL32 are used. Data are calculated as means ± S.E.M. EXAMPLE 8

Preparation and Stability of Oxidized SkQl Formulations

1. SkQl in 20% Cwt %) Glycerol and Phosphate Buffer

[0095] Glycerol (20 g) was diluted with phosphate buffer (80 g, 0.01 M H ₂ P0 ₄ , pH 4.77). A sample of SkQl (20 mg) was placed in a dark glass vial and dissolved in propylene glycol (0.2 mL) and diluted with an aliquot ( 19.8 ml) of the above solvent to 1 itiM.

[0096J The stability of SkQ l in the prepared solution was investigated by storage at RT and at 60 °C (Table 4).

Table 4

2. SkQl in 50% (wt %) 1 ,2-Propylene Glycol with Pyruvic Acid ( 1 0

Equivalents (eg ) Relative to SkQl )

[0097] SkQ l (50 mg) and pyruvic acid (71 mg, 10 eq) were placed in a dark glass vial and dissolved in 50% propylene glycol-water mixture ( 100 ml) to yield a 0.081 mM SkQl solution.

[0098] The stability of SkQl in the prepared solution was investigated by storage at 60 °C (Table 5). 3. SkQl in 50% (wt %) 1.2-Propylene Glycol With Lactic Acid (10 eg Relative to SkQl)

[0099] SkQl (50 mg) and L(+)-lactic acid (73 mg, 10 eq) were placed in a dark glass vial and dissolved in 50% propylene glycol-water mixture (100 ml) to yield a 0.081 mM SkQl solution.

[0100] The stability of SkQl in the prepared solution was investigated by storage at 60 °C (Table 5).

Table 5

4. SkQl with PEG-4000

[0101] A solution of 8 mg SkQl in 0.5 ml EtOH was mixed with 200 mg PEG- 4000, and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0102] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 4 °C in darkness (Table 6).

Table 6

5. SkQl with Dextran

[0103] A solution of 10 mg SkQl in 0.75 ml EtOH was added to a solution of 100 mg dextran in 1 ml water. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0104] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 7). Table 7

6. SkQl with p-aminobenzoic acid (p-ABA)

[0105] A solution of 8 mg SkQl in 0.5 ml EtOH was added to a solution of 200 mg p-aminobenzoic acid (p-ABA) in 1.5 ml EtOH. The solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0106] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at RT in darkness (Table 8).

Table 8

7. SkQl with Dextran and p-ABA

[0107] A solution of 10 mg SkQl in 0.75 ml EtOH was added to a solution of p- ABA (2 mg in 0.5 ml EtOH) and dextran (100 mg in 1 ml water). The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0108] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 9).

Table 9

8. SkQ l (1 eg) With Myoinosite (30 wt parts relative to SkQl )

[0109] 45 mg myoinosite was added to a solution of 5 mg SkQl in 5 ml EtOH. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0110] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at RT in darkness (Table 10).

Table 10

9. SkQl (1 eg) With Pyruvic Acid ( 10 eg) and Pearlitol 200 (30 wt parts relative to SkQl)

[0111] 375 mg Pearlitol 200 was added to a solution of 12.5 mg SkQl and 17.8 mg ( 10 eg) pyruvic acid in 0.75 ml EtOH. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0112] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 1 1 ).

10. SkQl (1 eq) With Pyruvic Acid (10 eg) and Microcrystalline Cellulose (30 wt parts relative to SkQl

[0113] 375 mg microcrystalline cellulose was added to a solution of 12.5 mg SkQl and 17.8 mg (10 eg) pyruvic acid in 0.75 ml EtOH. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0114] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 1 1 ). 1 1. SkQl (1 eq) With Pyruvic Acid (10 eg) and F-Melt C (wt parts relative to SkQl )

[0115] 375 mg F-Melt C was added to a solution of 12.5 mg SkQl and 17.8 mg (10 eq) pyruvic acid in 0.75 ml EtOH. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0116] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 1 1 ).

12. SkQl (1 eq) With Pyruvic Acid (0 eq) and Syloid FP (30 wt parts relative to SkQl )

[0117] 375 mg Syloid FP was added to a solution of 12.5 mg SkQl and 17.8 mg (10 eq) pyruvic acid in 0.75 ml EtOH. The mixture was vigorously stirred and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0118] The stability of SkQl in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 1 1 ).

Table 1 1

[0119] The following SkQl preparations can also be formulated as described supra in Example 8:

SkQl (1 eq) with citric (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine, 10 eq) and Pearlitol 200 (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQl (1 eq) with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine, 10 eq) and microcrysta!line cellulose (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ ) SkQl ( 1 eq) with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine, 10 eq) and F-Melt C (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQ l ( 1 eq) with citric acid (or tartaric acid, or lactic acid, or glycine, 10 eq) and Syloid FP (30 wt parts in relation to SkQ l H ₂ )

EXAMPLE 9

Preparation and Stability of Reduced SkQH? Formulations

13. SkQ l H2 (1 eq) Prepared in Situ by Reduction of SkQ l And Ascorbic Acid (2 molar eq) and PEG-4000 Π 0 wt parts relative to SkOl H?)

|0120] A solution of 10 mg SkQ l in 0.6 ml EtOH was added to solution of 5.7 mg (2 eq) ascorbic acid in 0. 1 ml water. The mixture was stirred until reduction to SkQl H ₂ completed (about 1 h). Then 100 mg PEG-4000 was added. The mixture was vigorously stirred for 30 min and the solvent evaporated to dryness.

[0121] The stability of SkQ l H ₂ in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 4 °C in darkness (Table 12).

14. SkQ l H2 (1 eq Prepared in Situ by Reduction of SkQ l With Ascorbic Acid (2 molar eq) and Dextran)

[0122] A solution of 10 mg SkQ l in 0.6 ml EtOH was added to solution of 5.7 mg (2 eq) ascorbic acid in 0.1 ml water. The mixture was stirred until reduction to SkQ l H ₂ completed (about 1 h). Then a solution of 100 mg dextran in 1 ml water was added. The mixture was vigorously stirred for 30 min and the solvent was evaporated to dryness.

[0123] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 4 °C in darkness (Table 12). Table 12

15. SkQl H2 (1 eq) Prepared in situ by Reduction of SkQl With Ascorbic Acid (10 molar eq) and Dextran (10 wt parts relative to SkQl H?)

[0124] A solution of 10 mg SkQl in 0.6 ml EtOH was added to solution of 28.5 mg ( 10 eq) ascorbic acid in 0.25 ml water. The mixture was stirred until reduction to SkQl H ₂ was completed (about 30 min). A solution of 100 mg dextran in 1 ml water was then added. The mixture was vigorously stirred for 30 min and the solvent evaporated to dryness.

[0125] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 13).

16. SkQlH2 (1 eq) (Prepared in situ by Reduction of SkQl With Ascorbic Acid (> 10 molar eq ^" ) With Dextran and p-ABA (10 wt parts relative to SkOl H?

[0126] A solution of 10 mg SkQl in 0.6 ml EtOH was added to solution of 28.5 mg (10 eq) ascorbic acid in 0.25 ml water. The mixture was stirred until reduction to SkQl H ₂ was completed (about 30 min). A solution of 100 mg dextran in 1 ml water and a solution of 2 mg p-ABA in 0.5 ml EtOH were then added. The mixture was vigorously stirred for 30 min and the solvent evaporated to dryness.

[0127] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 13). Table 13

17. SkOl H? Powder

[0128] A solution of 2 g SkQl in 40 ml EtOH was added to a solution of 5.7 g ascorbic acid in 60 ml water. The mixture was stirred until reduction to SkQl H? was completed (about 30 min). Completetion of reduction can be detected as the solution becomes colorless. The solvent was then evaporated off and the residue was partitioned between water (50 ml) and CHCb (150 ml). The organic layer was washed with water (2 x 25 ml), dried with anhydrous sodium sulfate, filtered, and evaporated.

[0129] The yield of SkQl H ₂ was 2 g (approx 100% yield) in the form of light powder. The stability results are shown below (Table 14 and Table 15).

Table 14

Table 15

18. SkOl H? (1 eq) With Sorbite (30 wt parts relative to SkQI H?)

[0130] A solution of 20 mg SkQl H ₂ in 1.3 ml EtOH was added to a solution of 600 mg sorbite in 1.3 ml water. The solvent was evaporated to dryness. The residue was additionally dried with diphosphorous pentoxide (P2O5) under reduced pressure.

[0131] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared composition was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 16). Table 16

19. SkQl Hg (1 eq) With Ascorbic Acid (0-5 eq) and Sorbite (30 wt parts relative to SkOl H?)

[0132] Method 1 :

A solution of 20 mg SkQl H ₂ in 1.3 ml EtOH was added to a solution of 28.4 mg (5 eq) ascorbic acid and 600 mg sorbite in 1 .3 ml water. The solvent was evaporated to dryness. The residue was additionally dried with P2O5 under reduced pressure.

[0133] Method 2:

20 mg SkQl H ₂ and 28.4 mg (5 eq) ascorbic acid were added to sorbite (600 mg) melted in a glass vial (bath temperature 1 10 °C ) slowly under vigorous stirring and stirring continued for 1 hr. The mixture was cooled to RT and vigorously triturated to provide a microcrystalline powder.

[0134] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the compositions prepared by both methods was investigated by storage at 60 °C and 4 °C in darkness (Table 17).

Table 17

[0135] The following SkQl H ₂ preparations in ascorbic acid are also prepared as in Example 19 supra:

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) with magnesium stearate (10 wt % in relation to SkQl H ₂ ) and glucose (10 wt parts in relation to SkQI H?)

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) with magnesium stearate (10 wt % in relation to SkQl H ₂ ) and lactose monohydrate (10 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and Pearlitol 200 (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and microcrystalline cellulose (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and F-Melt C (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ )

SkQl H ₂ (1 eq) with ascorbic acid (0-5 eq) and Syloid FP (30 wt parts in relation to SkQl H ₂ ) 20 - 22 and 26 -30. SkOlH? With Ascorbic Acid (0-5 eg) and Glucose

[0136] Method 3:

A solution of 20 mg SkQl H ₂ in 1.3 ml EtOH was added to 2 mg magnesium stearate and solution of ascorbic acid (quantities as listed in the Table 18) and 600 mg glycose in 1.3 ml water ( 1.3 mL). The solvent was evaporated to dryness. The residue was additionally dried with P2O5 under reduced pressure.

[0137] Method 4:

20 mg SkQl H ₂ , 2 mg magnesium stearate, ascorbic acid (quantities as listed in Table 18) and 600 mg anhydrous glycose were mixed and vigorously triturated. |0138] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in compositions prepared by Methods 3 and 4 was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 18).

23. - 25. SkQI H? with Ascorbic Acid (0-5 eq) and Lactose Monohydrate

[0139] The compositions were prepared as described above in Method 3 or 4 using lactose monohydrate instead of glycose.

[0140] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in compositions prepared by both methods was investigated by storage at 60 °C in darkness (Table 18).

Table 18

Table 18 (continued)

31. SkOlH? with Ascorbic Acid in 55% EtOH

[0141] A solution of pure SkQl H ₂ (1 g in 5 ml EtOH) was added to solution of ascorbic acid (2.85 g (10 eq) in 10 ml water).

[0142] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared solution was investigated by storage at RT in darkness (Table 19). Table 19

32. SkQI H? with Ascorbic Acid and Sorbite in 30% 1 ,2-Propylene Glycol

[0143] A solution of pure SkQl H ₂ (50 mg in 1 ml 1 ,2-propylene glycol) was added to solution of ascorbic acid (67.4 mg (5 eq)) and sorbite (1.5 g) in 10 ml water.

[0144] The stability of SkQl H ₂ in the prepared solution was investigated by storage at

60 °C in darkness (Table 20).

Table 20

EQUIVALENTS

[0145] Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific embodiments described specifically herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed in the scope of the following claims.