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Modulation of monocyte-macrophage function with alpha-tocopherol: implications for atherosclerosis.
Sridevi Devaraj1, Andrea Harris, Ishwarlal Jialal
1Department of Pathology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75390-9073, USA.
Nutrition Reviews
|February 15, 2002
Summary
Alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) shows promise in preventing cardiovascular disease by improving cell functions critical to atherogenesis. While in vitro and in vivo studies are encouraging, more clinical trials are needed for definitive recommendations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular research
- Nutritional science
- Cell biology
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death globally.
- Monocyte-macrophages play a key role in the development of atherosclerosis.
- Antioxidants, particularly alpha-tocopherol, are being investigated for cardiovascular benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence for alpha-tocopherol's beneficial effects on cellular functions involved in atherogenesis.
- To assess the potential of alpha-tocopherol in cardiovascular disease prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vitro and in vivo studies examining alpha-tocopherol's effects on relevant cell types and processes.
- Analysis of data on platelet aggregation, monocyte activity, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and endothelial function.
Main Results:
- Alpha-tocopherol demonstrated inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation and pro-inflammatory monocyte activity.
- In vitro evidence suggests positive impacts on smooth muscle cell proliferation and endothelial function.
- Emerging data indicate beneficial effects of alpha-tocopherol on macrophage function.
Conclusions:
- Accumulating evidence from preclinical studies supports a scientific rationale for alpha-tocopherol supplementation in cardiovascular health.
- Further clinical trials are necessary to establish definitive recommendations for primary and secondary prevention of heart disease.