α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol), a naturally occurring vitamin E form, is a potent antioxidant[2].In Vitro: α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol) is a peroxyl radical scavenger. The importance of this function is to maintain the integrity of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the membranes of cells and thus maintain their bioactivity.
α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol) has been described to inhibit PKC in various cell types with consequent inhibition of platelet aggregation, endothelial cell nitric oxide production and superoxide production in neutrophils and macrophages. α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol) exposure induced the activation of both the MAP kinase and PI3 kinase (PI3K) pathways, suggesting that it is the oxidative stress that up-regulates kinase pathways and the antioxidant action of α-tocopherol protects the cell membrane fatty acids.
α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol) has proposed benefits for influenza virus A infection, as well as possible activity against hepatitis B and C. α-Vitamin E shows proviral effects, particularly in HEK293T/17 cells.In Vivo: α-Vitamin E ((+)-α-Tocopherol) prevents the increase in the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1, IL-6, and IFN-γ mRNA and protein compared with the ischemic-reperfused myocardium from untreated pigs and compared to the non-injured area.
α-Vitamin E (D-α-Tocopherol; intraperitoneal injection or oral administration) treatment induces an amelioration of diabetic nephropathy in mice through the activation of diacylglycerol kinase α (DGKα) and the prevention of podocyte loss[2].