[Antioxidative properties of vitamin E as a new approach to its applications in therapy]

The article presents current state of knowledge about antioxidative action of vitamin E, enabling significant broadening of its possible application in medicine. Mechanisms are discussed due to which it takes a very important part in protection of an organism against effects of oxidative stress. Followed from here consequences of this vitamin deficiencies were indicated. Detailed review was made of its role in counteracting diseases of the largest social significance: cancer and cardiovascular system diseases. Attention was paid to observed controversies and discrepancies in therapeutic effects. Unfavourable effects that could appear with application of large doses of vitamin E, typical for antioxidative therapy, were characterised.