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Updated: May 2, 2026
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A Protocol for Detecting and Scavenging Gas-phase Free Radicals in Mainstream Cigarette Smoke
Published on: January 2, 2012
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Vitamin E suppresses increased lipid peroxidation in cigarette smokers
E Hoshino1, R Shariff, A Van Gossum
1Division of Gastroenterology, Toronto General Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Smokers experience increased lipid peroxidation, indicated by breath pentane output (BPO). Vitamin E supplementation significantly reduced this peroxidation, suggesting smokers may have a conditioned vitamin E deficiency.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Cigarette smoke introduces oxidants and free radicals, elevating lipid peroxidation.
- Breath pentane output (BPO) serves as a reliable biomarker for lipid peroxidation.
- Vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopherol) is a crucial antioxidant protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of vitamin E supplementation on lipid peroxidation in healthy smokers.
- To compare BPO levels between smokers and non-smokers.
- To assess the effect of vitamin E on plasma selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of 13 healthy smokers and 19 healthy non-smokers.
- Measurement of breath pentane output (BPO) in both groups.
- Administration of 800 mg/day vitamin E for two weeks to smokers.
Main Results:
- Smokers exhibited significantly higher BPO than non-smokers (16.3 vs 5.8 pmol/kg/min, p<0.001).
- Vitamin E supplementation markedly decreased BPO in smokers.
- Plasma selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase levels normalized in some smokers with initially low concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Normal dietary vitamin E intake does not prevent increased lipid peroxidation in smokers.
- Substantial vitamin E doses effectively reduce smoking-induced lipid peroxidation.
- Smokers may have a conditional vitamin E insufficiency due to increased oxidative stress.
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