rac-gamma-Tocopherol

gamma-Tocopherol is the most prevalent form of vitamin E in many seed oils and is the major form of vitamin E in the U.S. diet. gamma-Tocopherol has greater functionability in some processes than other forms of vitamin E such as a greater ability to trap lipophilic electrophiles. In addition, gamma-tocopherol has functions unique from other forms of vitamin E, as in its ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase activity and as a natriuretic.1 It has been suggested that gamma-tocopherol may be able to protect against cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer.2 Vitamin E is involved in immune function, cell signaling, regulation of gene expression, and other metabolic processes. Vitamin E also inhibits lipid oxidation by donating its phenolic hydrogen to lipid free radicals.3 Antioxidant activity in vivo is normally alpha > beta > gamma> delta but the antioxidant potency may depend on various chemical and physical situations.4 The ortho-methyl substitution of the chroman head plays a vital role in the antioxidant activity of tocopherols while the phytyl tail is very important for proper positioning in the biomembranes. The antioxidant properties of vitamin E may delay memory loss in Down’s syndrome patients due to their protection from harmful oxidation caused by excess activity of Superoxide dismutase. Vitamin E is only naturally produced in plants, algae, and some cyanobacteria and is therefore an important dietary nutrient for humans and animals.