Abstract
This book describes the important biomedical features of vitamin E. Focus is given on the properties of vitamin E as an important dietary constituent that helps in the defence against cellular damage, as well as the absorption of vitamin E from food and its utilization by the body. The book also discusses the effects of vitamin E at the cellular level, including its direct incorporation into membranes of subcellular organelles, its impact on cellular processes (from its involvement in preventing DNA damage to its influence in intracellular signalling), and its potential to confer antioxidant protective properties and prevent both the initiation and propagation of lipid peroxidation. The potential of vitamin E in being used therapeutically in a number of diseases and conditions is discussed as well. These range from the effects of vitamin E in treating skin damage to its actions in preventing pathological lesions in major organ-systems such as the liver, kidneys, intestines, heart, reproductive system, nervous system and cardiovascular system, as well as the beneficial effects of vitamin E in metabolic disorders. The aim of this book is to bring together the many features of vitamin E-related research. In this handbook, both the negative as well as the positive effects of vitamin E are described. This represents an all-embracing approach in describing the effects and actions of vitamin E. The book is divided into a number of subsections and is suitable for all those interested in nutrition in general, vitamins or the specific effects of vitamin E and/or oxidative stress.