Matreya LLC tocopherols

Vitamin E has become well known for its role as an antioxidant, in lowering levels of cholesterol and other lipids, as a neuroprotective and anticancer agent, and in cardiovascular disease protection. It consists of four tocopherols and four tocotrienols which have important and far-reaching biological activities.

The (saturated) tocopherol side chains are involved in immune function, cell signalling, regulation of gene expression and other metabolic processes. They also inhibit lipid oxidation by donating their phenolic hydrogen to lipid free radicals. The antioxidant properties of tocopherols may delay memory loss in Down’s syndrome patients due to their protection from harmful oxidation caused by excess activity of superoxide dismutase.

Tocopherols are only naturally produced in plants, algae and some cyanobacteria, and are therefore important dietary nutrients for humans and animals. Matreya LLC scientists have developed high-purity tocopherol standards to advance antioxidant research.