Content uploaded by Muhammad Waseem
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Muhammad Waseem on Sep 25, 2023
Content may be subject to copyright.
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 19 of 39
History:
Received: 25 July 2020
Accepted: Sep. 01, 2020
First Published: Sep. 17,
2020
Collection year: 2020
Confirmation of publication:
Published
Identifiers and Pagination:
Year: 2020
Volume: 12
First Page: 19
Last Page: 39
Publisher ID:
19204159.12.19
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/
19204159.12.19
Corresponding author:
Muhammad Modassar Ali
Nawaz Ranjha Institute of
Food Science and Nutrition,
University of Sargodha,
Sargodha – Pakistan
E:modassarranjha@gmail.co
m
Citation:
Muhammad Modassar Ali
Nawaz Ranjha. A Critical
Review on Alpha Tocopherol:
Sources, RDA And Health
Benefits Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-
42
Funding:
The authors received no
direct funding for this
research.
Competing Interests:
The authors declare no
competing interests
Additional information is
available at the end of the
article.
Review article
A CRITICAL REVIEW ON ALPHA TOCOPHEROL: SOURCES, RDA AND HEALTH BENEFITS.
Maria Batool1, Samina Kauser2, Hafiz Rehan Nadeem3, Rashida Perveen4, Shafeeqa Irfan2,
Ayesha Siddiqa3, Bakhtawar Shafique2, Syeda Mahvish Zahra2, Muhammad Waseem3,
Waseem Khalid5, Muhammad Modassar Ali Nawaz Ranjha2.
1. University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, University of Lahore, Gujrat – Pakistan
2. Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Sargodha, Sargodha – Pakistan
3. Institute of Food Science and Nutrition, Bahaddin Zakariya University, Multan – Pakistan
4. Department of Allied Health Sciences, Superior College, University Campus Lahore, Pakistan
5. Institute of Home and Food Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad – Pakistan
Abstract:
Virtually 100 years before α-tocopherol (universally known as a ―Vitamin-E‖) remained revealed. It
was essential component to preclude fetal recommencement in expectant. In 1940s, Vitamin E
existed recognized as the crucial part that plays in deactivating and extinguishing the free radicals
that is present inside the diverse compartments of muscles. There are the eight diverse types of bits
interconnected to Alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) are founded in human food or diet that is basically
manufactured from plants. In overall, the quantity of α-tocopherol (as a Vitamin E) provided by a
standard nourishment assortments from 6 to 13 mg per day (1 IU = 0.67 mg). In record states, the
predictable mediocre consumption is lower than 10 mg per day. Lipoproteins that are act as an
antioxidant are the form of vitamin E is produced in different parts of the body especially in Liver
organ where it plays as defender of definite fatty acids and proteins that is existent in the tissue from
free activists. It alleviates the cellular casings and it also enhanced the enablement of the immune
reaction throughout the infections. It has been reported that the Vitamin E is used to be protecting
the various types of diseases like it save the colon infection, prostate malignance, certain cardiac
syndromes, ischemia, flume, inflammation and nervous infections.
Keywords: α-tocopherol, Vitamin-E, Health benefits, Lipoprotein, Mode of Action
ALPHA TOCOPHEROLS
All plants synthesize α-tocopherols (Vitamin E), which are deliberated as lipophillic antioxidants.
They stow lipid peroxyl radicals during intense antioxidant activities (1). On interrelating with acyl
groups of lipids, α-tocopherols scavenge many lipid soluble and reactive oxygen species (ROS)
compounds produced during stress of oxidation process. It was testified and reported that, vigna
plants have an enhanced number of tocopherols (2). A twice intensification in α-tocopherol in lawn
mowers under water stress was described. Synthesis of α-tocopherol is under genetic control
activated by stress produced by oxidation in plants (3).
There are 08 naturally occurring vitamin E having the following biochemical arrangements (gamma,
alpha, beta, delta tocopherols and gamma, beta, delta and alpha toco-trienols) having a fluctuating
stage of genetic commotion. Liver removes and metabolizes an additional form of vitamin E.
Consequently, cell concentrations and blood of additional forms of vitamin E are inferior to alpha-
tocopherol and have been the topic of fewer investigations (4).
Sources of Vitamin E
Products from natural sources are being used from centuries (5,6). Numerous foods are enriched
with vitamin E. Vegetable oils, nuts and seeds are the superlative foundations of α-tocopherol and
are found in momentous volume in fortified cereals and green leafy vegetables (Grasp Table 1 & 2
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 20 of 39
for a detail of quantity of α-tocopherol in diverse foods and RDAs) (7).
Table 1: Best Sources of Alpha-Tocopherol
Food
Per serving (mg)
Daily value (%)
Spinach, Raw (01 Cup)
0.6
3
Tomato, Fresh (01)
0.7
4
Mango, Sliced (½ Cup)
0.7
4
Kiwifruit (01 Medium)
1.1
6
Oil of Soybean (01 Tbs)
1.1
6
Broccoli, Boiled, Chopped (½ Cup)
1.2
6
Spinach, Cooked (½ Cup)
1.9
10
Oil of Corn (01 Tbs)
1.9
10
Peanuts, Dry Roasted (01 Oz)
2.2
11
Butter of Peanut (02 Tbs)
2.9
15
Parched Roasted Hazelnuts (01 Oz)
4.3
22
Oil of Safflower (01 Tbs)
4.6
25
Oil of Sunflower (01 Tbs)
5.6
28
Dry Roasted Almonds (01 Oz)
6.8
34
Dry Roasted Seeds of Sunflower, (01 Ounce)
7.4
37
Oil of Wheat Germ (01 Tbs)
20.3
100
Maximum vitamins E in diets of Americans are in form of gamma-tocopherols. Vegetable oils, corn,
canola and soy have an extended capacity of vitamin E (4).
Table 2: RDAs for Vitamin E (α-Tocopherol) with respect to age and gender (8)
Age
Women
Men
Gestation
Lactation
0 – 6 Months*
4 mg
6 (IU)
4 mg
6 (IU)
-
-
7 – 12 Months*
5 mg
7.5 (IU)
5 mg
7.5 (IU)
-
-
1 – 3 Years*
6 mg
9 (IU)
6 mg
9 (IU)
-
-
4 – 8 Years*
7 mg
10.4 (IU)
7 mg
10.4 (IU)
-
-
9 – 13 Years*
11 mg
16.4 (IU)
11 mg
16.4 (IU)
-
-
14 + Years*
15 mg
22.4 (IU)
15 mg
22.4 (IU)
15 mg
22.4 (IU)
19 mg
28.4 (IU)
Isomers of tocopherols are chain-contravention anti-oxidants. The anti-oxidative commotion of
tocopherols is accompanying to scavenge free radicals of un-saturated lipids (9). α-Tocopherols are
an utmost organically abundant and active state of vitamin E (in vivo) which competently
transferences a H+ atom to a lipid free radical, such as carbon centered, alkoxyl and peroxyl
radicals, bountiful consistent non-radical artifact of an α-tocopheroxyl radical and lipid. After
development, α-tocopherol radicals react with a second free radical or with each other to form a
non-radical product. To elucidate the mechanism of tocopherol free radical modification, the reaction
products of tocopherols with lipid free radicals have been investigated.
Health Assistances
In cellular anti-oxidant protection mechanism, vitamin E is regarded as a most important component
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 21 of 39
that is lipid-soluble and this is completely attained from food. Due to an anti-oxidant action, vitamin E
plays frequent imperative characters inside the body. Process of oxidation is associated with
numerous conceivable diseases and circumstances, counting cataract, arthritis, aging and cancer.
Vitamin E has a capability to preclude from atherosclerosis and unnecessary upsurge in platelets.
Furthermore, it may help to decrease the prostaglandin production like thromboxane that persuades
aggregation of platelets (10).
Antioxidant Activity of α-tocopherol
Ohm et al., 2005 accompanied a study to evaluate the antioxidant action of α-tocopherol upon
oxidation of lipids. According to them, α-tocopherols are recognized as influential antioxidants.
Objective of that study (in vitro) was to inspect the dosage-based reserve of formation of oxidation
product instigated by α-tocopherol and also to guesstimate potential of peak anti-oxidant action of α-
tocopherol at diverse phases of oxidation of lipids. In rapeseed oil tri-glycerides (purified rapeseed
oil\ ROTGs), α-tocopherol was added in some meditations fluctuating from 25 – 1500 mmol/ kg. The
antioxidant action of α-tocopherol augmented fit for a meditation of 100 mmol/ kg (purified rapeseed
oil). A meditation of 125 mmol of α-tocopherol/ kg (purified rapeseed oil) didn’t show an enhanced
anti-oxidant outcome. The development of subordinate oxidation products (volatile) tracked
analogous trend and as a result, an extreme anti-oxidant consequence was seen for 100 mmol α-
tocopherol/ kg. Additionally, meditations among 250 and 1500 mmol α-tocopherol / kg (purified
rapeseed oil) evidently triggered the augmented production of hydro-peroxides through period of
induction. As interrelated with control group, entire tried mediations of α-tocopherols occasioned in
reduced hydro-peroxide creation and no pro-oxidative properties were pragmatic (11).
Traber and Atkinson, (2007) presented a theory that all annotations concerning the mechanism of in
vivo initiation of α-tocopherol stem from its role as a lipid soluble anti-oxidant. Purpose of that study
was to designate an evidence for in-vivo effectiveness of alpha-tocopherol. The role of alpha-
tocopherol as an anti-oxidant is to uphold the legitimacy of long-chain fatty acids (unsaturated) in
superficial surface (cell membrane) and thus sustaining a normal genetic commotion. Furthermore,
it seemed improbable that those pathways were exactly beneath the regulation of alpha-tocopherol
assumed that numerous anti-oxidants excluding various oxidative stressors and alpha-tocopherol
might deploy their retorts. Consequently, entire scope and variations of alpha-tocopherol’s organic
commotion could be understandable in light of the membrane qualities (lipid domains, phase
separation and fluidity) and defense of poly-unsaturated fatty acids which bring about by poly-
unsaturated fatty acids (12).
Dandapat et al. (2000) conducted a study in order to regulate an outcome of added α-tocopherol in
200, 400 and 600 mg/ kg feed upon anti-oxidant defense system and lipid peroxidation (LPX) in gills
and pancreatic cells of the shrimp (Macrobrachium rosenbergii). According to outcomes of this
study, it was showed that α-tocopherol repressed an augmented lipid peroxidation (LPX) in gills as
compared to hepatopancreas. To the entire 03 supplemented regime, superoxide dismutase (SOD,
EC 1.15.1.1) activity was reduced expressively in gills. Reduction in pancreatic cells were detected
just in retort to advanced dosages of α-tocopherol i. e. 400 and 600 mg/ kg feed. Enzymatic action
was not abridged pointedly in pancreatic cells but gills. The activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx)
(EC 1.11.1.9) remained uninfluenced in gills. There’s highest quantity in the pancreatic cells by the
consumption of α-tocopherol. Glutathione-disulfide reductase (GSR) action remained same in
pancreatic cells but declined in gills. A considerable augmentation in the quantity of glutathione
(GSH) content was noticed in both the pancreatic cells and gills. While, content of vitamin C
(ascorbic acid) raised suggestively in pancreatic cells and remained unchanged in gills. So,
conclusions of this enquiry proposed that vitamin-E has a capability to reduce level of LPX and also
might control anti-oxidant defense system in pancreatic cells and gills, rejoinder was tissue specific
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 22 of 39
exceedingly. Further, it was detected that the consumption of high dosage of α-tocopherol (i. e. 600
mg/ kg feed) is not capable to reduce considerable extra-defense in gills and pancreatic cells (13).
Tucker and Townsend, (2005) reviewed the health outcomes of α-tocopherol in therapy, and
prevention from innumerable human diseases. α-tocopherol is an utmost effective anti-oxidant (fat-
soluble) acknowledged on landscape. It was a myth in past those α-tocopherol acts only as a lipid
peroxyl radicals’ scavenger. Unambiguously, with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), thus
helping as an imperative anti-oxidant for inhibition of arterial hardens (atherosclerosis); now days,
evidence-based studies claimed many of the adventitious effects of α-tocopherol (other than anti-
oxidant action) which comprise gene regulatory, pro-oxidant, cell signaling belongings. Periods of
preclinical and clinical investigations have extended our consideration regarding anti-oxidant action
of α-tocopherol and its efficacy in multiple and enduring oxidative stress-tempted pathogenesis (14).
Anti-Inflammatory Commotion of α-Tocopherol
Grammas et al. (2004) scrutinized the anti-inflammatory possessions of metabolites of tocopherol
(c-tocopherol, α-tocopherol) and its association with 2,7,8-trimethyl-2-(b-carboxyethyl)-6-
hydroxychroman (c-CEHC) and 2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(b-carboxyethyl)-6-hydroxychroman (α-CEHC)
and in a distinct culture system of cells. An aortic cell of endothelium of mice and cultures of
microglia was treated with tumor necrosis factor (cachectin, cachexin, or TNF), prostaglandin E2
(PGE2) and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and nitrite was analyzed. TNFα -stimulated nitrite
production was repressed by α-CEHC in both types of cells, while inhibition of both CEHC
derivatives and LPS-stimulated microglial nitrite efflux resulted. Both c-CEHC and α-CEHC
repressed the production microglia PGE2, but neither c- nor a-tocopherol proved operative in
inhibition of inflammatory processes of stimulated cytokine. According to the consequences, it was
proved that anti-inflammatory properties of tocopherols were extremely endpoint-dependent,
stimulated and specific cell type (15).
Atherogenicity action and Other Cardiac Outcomes
It has become a topic of interest that diets enriched with vitamins (anti-oxidants) have a capability to
condense the menace of atherosclerosis by averting low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by modification in
oxidative processes. Inhibition of lipid peroxidation (ex-vivo) was shown by supplements
encompassing antioxidant compounds, carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E. In numerous
observational researches, it has been stated that advanced consumptions and blood meditations of
vitamins were linked with an abridged risk of coronary artery disease and stroke (16).
An atherosclerotic plaque is considered responsible for augmented intima-carotid thickness in the
arterial system and envisages stroke and myocardial infarction in normal healthy individuals.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) result due to dietary factors), so; optimization of nutritional
parameters must be well thought-out as a significant routine interference in managing of existing
cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and also its anticipation (17).
It has been evidently proved and verified that diet plays an imperative role in maintaining good
health, counting explanations that the frequency of explicit illnesses diverges extensively across
nations. In such type of problematic situations, it is highly mandatory to alter the diet, which is
recommended as safe (17). Many evidences of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diet have
testified relations of danger with definite nutrients instead of whole nutriments. However,
innumerable investigations stated the character of complete nutritional outlines in expecting
cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) (18).
The characterization of atherosclerosis is finalized\ diagnosed by the presence of cholesterol
accretion and intimal plaques in wall of arteries (19). Furthermore, when atherosclerosis is in
developmental stages, it happens due to many prominent and fatal risk factors comprising bacterial
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 23 of 39
infection, a genetic predisposition, smoking, stress, a high level of C-reactive protein (CRP),
dyslipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, hypertension,
vascular wall inflammation, an immunological disorder and alcohol consumption (20).
It is well thought that the intake\ consumption of anti-oxidants might possess a high and effective
healing approach to avert the growth of atherosclerosis (21). Nitrite, peroxynitrite and hydrogen
peroxide are the chief responsive non-radical class (22). Mitochondrion is the main source of
reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside the cell. In addition, uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide
synthetase (eNOS), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), myeloperoxidase (MPO), cyclooxygenase (COX),
lipoxygenase (LOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO) are some of the oxidizing enzymes that ensued in
endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and macrophages. Low density lipoproteins (LDL),
production of RNS\ ROS and oxidation of smooth muscle cell proliferation caused due to these
enzymes (23).
Irritable oxygen species (ROS) are proficient to mutilation functions of cells and bio-molecules like
carbohydrates, proteins and lipids and might be started e. g., hyperglyceridemia and high blood
sugar resulting in LDL oxidation and lipid peroxidation (24). Nevertheless, a slightly propensity to
pursue harm is be contingent not solitary on the spot and the amount of reactive oxygen species
(ROS) formed but also on the compensatory manufacturer's rejoinder (24). Accumulation of
lipoproteins, particularly the low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) inside arteries and some
peril influences incline to enable the dispersion of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) inside
the intima. LDL-C is converted into Ox-LDL just because of RNS and ROS which leftovers in intima
(25).
Oxidized lipids and cytokines are accountable for the initiation of endothelial cells. On the surface of
endothelium, cytokines like interferon gamma (IFN-γ), -6 (IL-1, IL-4, IL-6), interleukin-1,-4 and tumor
necrosis factor (TNF-α) make countenance of adhesion molecules, monocyte and leukocyte,
particularly E-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM) and vascular cell adhesion
molecule-1 (VCAM). By the accumulation of these adhesion molecules, T-lymphocytes and
monocytes are generated in the intima of vascular wall. From media to intima, some explicit
chemokines are capable to cause migration of smooth muscle cells resulting proliferation of cells.
Chemotactic proteins like IL-8, macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and monocyte
chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) are differentiated through monocytes in sub-endothelial space by
macrophages (26).
Apoptosis (cell death) happened through evolving lesion (atherosclerotic). Due to apoptotic foam
cell death, a necrotic core is generated which works as a yard for lipids and cellular debris (27).
From media – intima, the induction of extracellular matrix production in atheroma formation and few
layers are generated due to which a stringy plaque cap (atherosclerotic) is formed through
relocation of cells of smooth muscle. T-lymphocytes, macrophages, smooth muscle cells (SMC) and
collagen-rich fiber tissues are the parts of cap of atherosclerotic plaque. Lessened flow of blood in
vessels and tissue macrophages cause’s athermanous lesions and formation of atherosclerotic
plaque is arbitrated by mechanisms of fibrous cap. Obliteration of fibrous cap takes place due to the
breakdown of extra-cellular matrix and thrombogenic contents and coagulation process starts here
due to thrombus formation, the adhesion of platelets and blood clot formation (25). Figure 1 portrays
the chief events of atherosclerosis.
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 24 of 39
Figure 1: Events of Atherosclerosis Adapted from; (25)
Alzheimer's syndrome
A double-blind multicenter, placebo-controlled and randomized trial was conducted in patients of
Alzheimer's disease. 341 patients received alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E, 2000 IU daily) and
discerning mono-amine oxidase blockers (10 mg/ day). Regardless of an arbitrary project, the score
at base-line regarding to mini–mental state inspection was much advanced in placebo cluster than
in additional 03 groups and that variable was extremely prognostic of principal consequence (P <
0.001). In an unadjusted scrutinization, there was no statistically momentous variance in results
between 04 clusters. But, the base-line score on the mini–mental state inspection, a noteworthy
interruptions in time to the main consequence for patients treated with combination therapy (585
days, P = 0.049), alpha-tocopherol (670 days, P = 0.001), placebo group (440 days) and selegiline
(median time, 655 days; P = 0.012), as equated with the patients with abstemiously unadorned
damage from Alzheimer's disease (28).
Oxidative stress is actually caused due to fluctuated routine alterations that has a capability to cause
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its probability of incidence. It was reviewed that current beneficial
procedures accessible in the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Consequently, no fair
treatment is available for the treatment of AD because of the foremost permanent deteriorating brain
cells. Complimentary treatments like herbal medications have a tendency to postpone and stop the
development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Current medical information is also recommended.
Though, as more and more lead molecules are under clinical investigation, we hope to have unique
molecules that can prevent the progression of AD by using the rapid mechanism that is likely to be
marketed in the near future (29).
Intellectual diminishing
A health study related to women was conducted that was placebo-controlled, double-blind and
randomized probationary of vitamin E supplementation i. e. 600 IU [α-tocopherol acetate] on
different days which started among 39,876 vigorous females of United States (US) in between 1992
and 1995. 6377 females of ≥ 65 years older partaken in that intellectual study. 03 valuations of
category fluency, verbal memory and general cognition were directed by an aid of phone at 02 years
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 25 of 39
interlude. A worldwide amalgamated groove is close to recital was the principal conclusion that was
applied on all assessments. No variances were noted in worldwide groove among placebo and
vitamin E cluster at initial valuation. In the initial phase valuation was done after 5.6 years having (95
% confidence interval [CI], -0.04 – 0.03, mean difference − 0.01) and ended at former valuation at
9.6 years (-0.04 – 0.04, mean difference, 0.00; 95 % CI). Alteration time for mean intellectual
capability was not similar in placebo group but similar in vitamin E group (P = .16, −0.01 to 0.05, 95
% CI and mean transformation in change = 0.02). The comparative hazard of considerable failure in
worldwide groove in placebo group compared with the vitamin E group was 0.92 (0.77 – 1.10, 95 %
CI). It was then proved by this observation analyses that supplementation of vitamin E has no
significant role on cognitive behavior (30).
Vitamin E is recognized as the valuable and much imperative anti-oxidant in brain in the form of α-
tocopherol. Just because of bulky quantities in brain of its carrier α-TTP (α-tocopherol transfer
protein) whose purpose includes allocating and regulating levels of vitamin E in numerous cells
(31).Important insights into the function of brain accentuate those carriers of the human mutation in
α-TTP gene development advanced and extremely low levels of vitamin E, loss of proliferation,
clavicular dysfunction and spino-cerebral ataxia. In encephalon, α-TTP expression is highest in the
cerebellum, especially in astrocytes, which supply vitamin E to neighboring neurons. Importantly, α-
TTP expression is increased in the brain of patients with neurodegenerative diseases (32). So, it
has been clinched that vitamin E has an operational character in neuro-protection due to its anti-
oxidant action.
Hemodialysis Patients
Augmented mortality and cardiovascular complications are caused due to oxidative stress,
particularly in patients facing end-stage renal disease. Though, observational information from the
general population have shown that dietary antioxidant intake is associated with reduced
cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, most clinical intervention trials have failed to support this
relationship. This may be the result of not using an effective antioxidant dose or failing to evaluate
patients with high oxidative stress. A study in hemodialysis patients reported that 800 IU / day alpha-
tocopherol reduces cardiovascular endpoints. Timely study of recent dose response studies in
patients with hypertension and 1,600 IU per day alpha-tocopherol is an optimal dose. Such dose
response data are not available for hemodialysis patients. Therefore, the purpose of this study was
to evaluate the effect of different doses of oral alpha-tocopherol on oxidative stress in hemodialysis
patients with high oxidative stress and the time needed to achieve this effect. The study consisted of
a time period and then a dose response study in a periodic study of 20 hemodialysis patients with
high oxidative stress, 1600 IU per day (RRR) alpha-tocopherol for 20 weeks or placebo. Blood was
collected every 2 weeks and analyzed for oxidative stress markers (plasma F2-isoprostane) and
alpha-tocopherol. The optimal time to significantly reduce plasma F2-isoprostane was determined
from this study. In the dose response study, 60 patients randomly received placebo, placebo, 100,
200, 400, 800 or 1600 IU normal daily alpha-tocopherol (RRR) for the specified period of study.
Blood was collected at baseline and every 2 weeks and analyzed for F2-isoprostane and alpha-
tocopherol plasma. It is assumed that a dose of 800 IU of vitamin E is required to significantly
reduce plasma F2 isoprostanes. This study determines the time and dose required for alpha-
tocopherol to significantly reduce oxidative stress in hemodialysis patients. The data are used to
evaluate the effect of alpha-tocopherol on cardiovascular outcomes in hemodialysis patients (33).
Mode of Action
Additionally, α-tocopherol seems to work as a ligand of not yet recognized exact proteins
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 26 of 39
(transcription factors and receptors) which are proficient to adapt gene expression and signal
transduction (34).
Reinvestigation of mechanism of action of α-tocopherol has been methodically accomplished in past
few years. α-tocopherol roles in active structures chiefly as a free radical scavenger and lipid anti-
oxidant had to be reviewed. It has been verified that, between some significant detections which
have carried to this novel standard is a verdict that of the 08 vitamin E (the homonymous
tocotrienols and δ-, γ-, β-, α-tocopherol), solitary α-tocopherol seems to be engaged in momentous
quantities by an organism (35). This incident is actually a result of countenance of a protein (α-TTP)
with augmented discrimination for α-tocopherol (36). Several further genes have been originated to
be under the regulator of α-tocopherol after the innovative discovery that α-tocopherol is capable to
control the expression of genes (37). Though, by an apparent compensatory mechanism, not a
single gene expressed anti-oxidant enzymatic reaction in the absenteeism of α-tocopherol. Diverse
tocotrienols and tocopherols have properties which are sovereign of their comparative anti-oxidant
possessions at the level of cell. For example, diverse equivalents of carbonitrile byproducts and
tocopherols constrain the propagation of smooth tissues by a systematic way which is distinct from
anti-oxidant possessions of the particles. Furthermore, rivalry among β-tocopherol and α-tocopherol
in constraining smooth muscle cell proliferation and PKC (38) proposes the presence of necessary
spot for the 02 particles and might not be clarified in relations of 02 anti-oxidants that are added
together have fewer outcome as compared to α-tocopherol alone. α-Tocotrienol acts by an aid of
parameter of gene expression in an anti-oxidant-free method (39).
Adversative properties
As an alternative, the consequences of CVDs deterrence (HOPE) valuation appraised vitamin E and
an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor in people with high-risk cardiovascular events who had
diabetes and at least one other cardiovascular disease. The results of vitamin E intervention had no
significant benefits. According to the above data, primary and secondary prevention trials do not
support the clinical effect of vitamin E as an antioxidant that reduces the burden of cardiovascular
disease. Although vitamin E prevents lipid peroxidation, addition of vitamin E to lipid emulsions can
accelerate lipid peroxidation in vitro. In vivo studies have also shown that vitamin E administration
increases plasma lipid peroxidation product levels in high-fat diet smokers and increased liver fat in
mice fed a high-fat diet plus ethanol. In addition, a meta-analysis showed that high intake of vitamin
E supplements may increase overall mortality in the general population. These results suggest that
large amounts of vitamin E supplements can be harmful (40).
Conclusion
Maximum of the risk factors of CVDs, counting diabetes, obesity, hypertension and hyperlipidemia
are expressively pretentious with dietetic influences. Disproportionate eating of vegetables and fruits
containing α-tocopherols has been linked with subordinate tolls of overweightness and thus a
developed danger of 2 diabetes and hypertension. Considering the association among vegetable
and fruit ingesting and cardiovascular disorders, it is mandatory to motivate cognizance of nutritional
strategies and also customer tutoring in order to decrease the menace of CVDs. Solution is actually
the intensification of entire ration of ≥ 05 regular mealtimes of vegetables and fruits. It must be
eaten as per a basis of water, phytochemicals, fiber and vitamins as portion of a well-adjusted
regime.
For optimum health and nutrition, people ought to attain bio-active nutrients from an extensive
variety of entire diets or from those foods which are enrich in fiber or cereals derivative of
vegetables but not from nutritional supplements. Carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E proved
unsatisfactory in experimental prosecutions held earlier. This happened due to involvedness of
available vegetables and fruits having a bulky quantity of biologically dynamic composites besides
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 27 of 39
additional biologically dynamic foundations of biologically dynamic composites. As an alternative,
indication recommends that a multifaceted customary of numerous nutritional composites interrelate
to impact the menace of cardiovascular troubles. Consequently, consideration to entire nutritional
outlines and nutriments is decisive to condense the menace of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Evidence advocates that intake of vegetables and fruits have a defensive consequence contrary to
cardiovascular disorders, principally from observational investigations. The true level of the
association among vegetable and fruit ingesting and a prevalence of cardiovascular disorder are
observed. It was not fully proved by the outcomes of controlled randomized prosecutions that
consumption of vegetables and fruits preserve against cardiovascular disorders, partially as
nutritional interferences have not been adequately concentrated to achieve an ideal investigation of
their assumed belongings. Defensive mechanisms might comprise not only recognized organic
nutrients like potassium and fiber but also practical characteristics of vegetable and fruit ingesting,
such as energy density and low glycemic load. Collectively, it seemed that entire evidence
congregated up to now assists an impression that augmented feasting of vegetables and fruits might
decrease the menace of CVDs.
The consequence of quantity on the types of fruits and vegetables consumed the amount of
processing in unpublished associations and an impact of certain classes of fruits and vegetables is
still undistinguishable. Few reservations might be addressed in imminent.
References
1. Massacci A, Nabiev SM, Pietrosanti L, Nematov SK, Chernikova TN, Thor K, et al. Response
of the photosynthetic apparatus of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) to the onset of drought
stress under field conditions studied by gas-exchange analysis and chlorophyll fluorescence
imaging. Plant Physiol Biochem. 2008;46(2):189–95.
2. Manivannan P, Abdul Jaleel C, Kishorekumar A, Sankar B, Somasundaram R, Sridharan R,
et al. Changes in antioxidant metabolism of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. by propiconazole
under water deficit stress. Colloids Surfaces B Biointerfaces. 2007;57(1):69–74.
3. Gong C, Ning P, Bai J. Responses of antioxidative protection to varying drought stresses
induced by micro-ecological fields on desert C4 and C3 plants in Northwest China. Life Sci J.
2012;9(4):2006–16.
4. Dietrich M, Traber MG, Jacques PF, Cross CE, Hu Y. Does Tocopherol Play a Role in the
Primary Prevention of Heart Dieases and Cancer? A Review. J Am Coll Nutr.
2006;25(5):370–81.
5. Ranjha MMAN, Irfan S, Nadeem M, Mahmood S. A Comprehensive Review on Nutritional
Value, Medicinal Uses, and Processing of Banana. Food Rev Int [Internet]. 2020;00(00):1–
27. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/87559129.2020.1725890
6. Ranjha MMAN, Amjad S, Ashraf S, Khawar L, Safdar MN, Jabbar S, et al. Extraction of
Polyphenols from Apple and Pomegranate Peels Employing Different Extraction Techniques
for the Development of Functional Date Bars. Int J Fruit Sci [Internet]. 2020;00(00):1–21.
Available from: https://doi.org/10.1080/15538362.2020.1782804
7. Canales. The Effect of Alpha-Tocopherol on the Activity of Acetylcholinesterases from
Different Sources. Neurochem Journal,. 2019;13(1):36–42.
8. DRI. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids,
Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids (Macronutrients). The National Academies of
Sciences Engineering Medicine. 2005. 1–1331 p.
9. Fujisawa S, Atsumi T, Ishihara M, Kadoma Y. Cytotoxicity, ROS-generation Activity and
Radical-scavenging Activity of Curcumin and Related Compounds. Anticancer Res.
2004;24(2 B):563–9.
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 28 of 39
10. Rizvi, S., Raza, S. T., Ahmed, F., Ahmad, A., Abbas, S., & Mahdi F. The role of vitamin E in
human health and some diseases. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J. 2014;14(2):157.
11. Ohm VA, Stöckmann H, Schwarz K. The more - The better? Estimating the inhibitory activity
of alpha-tocopherol towards lipid oxidation. J Plant Physiol. 2005;162(7):785–9.
12. Traber MG, Atkinson J. Vitamin E, antioxidant and nothing more. Free Radic Biol Med.
2007;43(1):4–15.
13. Dandapat J, Chainy GBN, Janardhana Rao K. Dietary vitamin-E modulates antioxidant
defence system in giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii. Comp Biochem
Physiol - C Pharmacol Toxicol Endocrinol. 2000;127(1):101–15.
14. Tucker JM, Townsend DM. Alpha-tocopherol: Roles in prevention and therapy of human
disease. Biomed Pharmacother. 2005;59(7):380–7.
15. Grammas P, Hamdheydari L, Benaksas EJ, Mou S, Pye QN, Wechter WJ, et al. Anti-
inflammatory effects of tocopherol metabolites. Biochem Biophys Res Commun.
2004;319(3):1047–52.
16. Ryan E, Galvin K, O’Connor TP, Maguire AR, O’Brien NM. Phytosterol, squalene, tocopherol
content and fatty acid profile of selected seeds, grains, and legumes. Plant Foods Hum Nutr.
2007;62(3):85–91.
17. Alissa EM, Ferns GA. Dietary fruits and vegetables and cardiovascular diseases risk. Crit
Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2017;57(9):1950–62.
18. Denova-Gutiérrez E, Tucker KL, Salmerón J, Flores M, Barquera S. Relative validity of a
food frequency questionnaire to identify dietary patterns in an adult Mexican population.
Salud Publica Mex. 2016;58(6):608–16.
19. Zhu Y, Xian X, Wang Z, Bi Y, Chen Q, Han X, et al. Research progress on the relationship
between atherosclerosis and inflammation. Biomolecules. 2018;8(3):1–11.
20. Sega FVD, Fortini F, Aquila G, Campo G, Vaccarezza M, Rizzo P. Notch signaling regulates
immune responses in atherosclerosis. Front Immunol. 2019;10(MAY):1–13.
21. Vasiliki, G., Charalampia, D., & Haralabos KC. In vitro antioxidant, antithrombotic,
antiatherogenic and antidiabetic activities of Urtica dioica, Sideritis euboea and Cistus
creticus water extracts and investigation of pasta fortification with the most bioactive one.
Current pharmaceutical biotechnol. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2019;
22. Jain PK, Sharma P, Joshi SC. ANTIOXIDANT AND LIPID LOWERING EFFECTS OF
ELAEOCARPUS GANITRUS IN Cholesterol fed rabbit. Int J Pharm Sci Res.
2019;9(January).
23. Sun Y, Nemec-Bakk AS, Mallik AU, Bagchi AK, Singal PK, Khaper N. Blueberry extract
attenuates doxorubicin-induced damage in h9c2 cardiac cells. Can J Physiol Pharmacol.
2019;97(9):880–4.
24. Graves DB, Bauer G. Comprehensive clinical plasma medicine: Cold physical plasma for
medical application. Compr Clin Plasma Med Cold Phys Plasma Med Appl. 2018;1–526.
25. Malekmohammad K, Sewell RDE, Rafieian-Kopaei M. Antioxidants and atherosclerosis:
Mechanistic aspects. Biomolecules. 2019;9(8):1–19.
26. Brandsma E, Kloosterhuis NJ, Koster M, Dekker DC, Gijbels MJJ, Van Der Velden S, et al. A
Proinflammatory Gut Microbiota Increases Systemic Inflammation and Accelerates
Atherosclerosis. Circ Res. 2019;124(1):94–100.
27. Silva, E. H., Wickramatilake, C. M., Lekamwasam, S., Mudduwa, B., Kumari, L., & Ubayasiri
RA. Vascular dysfunction and atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease; A distinct entity. J
Nephropathol. 2019;8(2).
28. Windisch M. Approach towards an integrative drug treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. J
Neural Transm Suppl. 2000;(59):301–13.
Maria et. al., J App Pharm. Vol. 12: 2020. p. 19-39
http://dx.doi.org/ 19204159.12.19
Page 29 of 39
29. Sivaraman D, Anbu N, Kabilan N, Pitchiah Kumar M, Shanmugapriya P, Christian GJ.
Review on Current Treatment Strategy in Alzheimer’S Disease and Role of Herbs in Treating
Neurological Disorders. Int J Trans Res Ind Med [Internet]. 2019;1(1):33–43. Available from:
www.ijtriim.com
30. Kang TH, Hur JY, Kim HB, Ryu JH, Kim SY. Neuroprotective effects of the cyanidin-3-O-β-D-
glucopyranoside isolated from mulberry fruit against cerebral ischemia. Neurosci Lett.
2006;391(3):122–6.
31. Lim, Y., & Traber MG. Alpha-tocopherol transfer protein (α-TTP): Insights from alpha-
tocopherol transfer protein knockout mice. Nutr Res Pract. 2007;1(4):247–53.
32. Ulatowski L, Dreussi C, Noy N, Barnholtz-Sloan J, Klein E, Manor D. Expression of the α;-
tocopherol transfer protein gene is regulated by oxidative stress and common single-
nucleotide polymorphisms. Free Radic Biol Med [Internet]. 2012;53(12):2318–26. Available
from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2012.10.528
33. Reed A, Cho YJ, Coombes JS, Fassett RG. Time course and dose response of alpha
tocopherol on oxidative stress in haemodialysis patients. BMC Nephrol. 2009;10(1).
34. Azzi A. Molecular mechanism of α-tocopherol action. Free Radic Biol Med. 2007;43(1):16–
21.
35. Wolf G. How an increased intake of alpha-tocopherol can suppress the bioavailability of
gamma-tocopherol. Nutr Rev. 2006;64(6):295–9.
36. Engin K. Alpha-tocopherol: looking beyond an antioxidant. Mol vision,. 2009;15:855.
37. Oommen S, Vasu VT, Leonard SW, Traber MG, Cross CE, Gohil K. Genome wide
responses of murine lungs to dietary α-tocopherol. Free Radic Res. 2007;41(1):98–133.
38. Farbstein D, Kozak-Blickstein A, Levy AP. Antioxidant vitamins and their use in preventing
cardiovascular disease. Molecules. 2010;15(11):8098–110.
39. Rimbach, G., & De Pascual-Teresa S. Application of nutrigenomics tools to analyze the role
of oxidants and antioxidants in gene expression. Oxidative Stress Dis. 2005;17(1).
40. Chew EY, Milton R. Meta-analysis: High-dosage vitamin E supplementation may increase
all-cause mortality. Evidence-Based Eye Care. 2005;6(2):88–9.
© 2019 The Author(s). This open access article is distributed under a Creative Commons
Attribution (CC-BY) 4.0 license.
You are free to:
Share — copy and redistribute the material in any medium or format. Adapt — remix, transform, and
build upon the material for any purpose, even commercially. The licensor cannot revoke these
freedoms as long as you follow the license terms. Under the following terms: Attribution — You must
give appropriate credit, provide a link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. You may
do so in any reasonable manner, but not in any way that suggests the licensor endorses you or your
use. No additional restrictions. You may not apply legal terms or technological measures that legally
restrict others from doing anything the license permits