Lecture #14 - Vitamin E Flashcards
What are the main functions of vitamin E?
Vitamin E serves as an antioxidant, quenching free radicals in cell membranes, stabilizing polyunsaturated lipids, minimizing lipid peroxidation, and protecting against cellular aging, atherosclerosis, and liver injury.
What distinguishes the chemical structure of alpha-tocotrienol from alpha-tocopherol?
In alpha-tocotrienol, positions 5 and 7 on the chromanol ring have H5, whereas in alpha-tocopherol, these positions have CH3. This structural difference impacts their antioxidant activity.
How does vitamin E function as an antioxidant?
Vitamin E quenches free radicals, preventing the oxidative damage of lipids within cell membranes. This action contributes to cellular health and longevity.
Why is vitamin E important for preventing lipid peroxidation?
Vitamin E protects polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes from peroxidation by reactive oxygen species, thus preserving cell integrity and function.
