Dr. Koji Fukui

Abstract:

Tocotrienols, a natural fat-soluble vitamin, have a strong antioxidant effect. Its antioxidant effect is stronger than that of tocopherols. Tocotrienols have unique functions such as inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, neuroprotection, and inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase activity.

On the other hand, obesity has become a serious problem worldwide and increases the risk of many serious diseases. One of the problems caused by obesity is the promotion of oxidation in the body. The accumulation of oxidative damage in the body is deeply related to lifespan. In this study, to clarify the relationship between obesity and oxidative damage, obese mice were created and tocotrienols were administered to verify its antioxidant effect.

Tocotrienols administration significantly suppressed weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet [1]. This phenomenon did not change even when the administration period or dosage was changed [2]. HPLC confirmed that tocotrienols had reached the adipose tissue. In serum tests, lipid scores were significantly improved. This is thought to be related to improved liver function. These results indicate the discovery of a new function of the antioxidant tocotrienols and encourage further research.