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Tocopherol level in human fetal and infant liver
Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Fetal and newborn infants have significantly lower tocopherol (Vitamin E) levels in their livers compared to adults. Levels increase during fetal development but remain low post-birth, highlighting potential nutritional considerations.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is a vital antioxidant crucial for cellular health.
- Understanding tocopherol levels in vulnerable populations like fetuses and newborns is essential for assessing nutritional status and potential health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if tocopherol is depleted in fetuses and newborn infants.
- To establish a reliable method for measuring tocopherol levels in liver tissue.
Main Methods:
- Developed and validated a colorimetric assay using Emmerie-Engel's principle with floridine column chromatography.
- Quantified tocopherol levels using TLC analysis and densitometry for accurate measurement.
- Achieved over 90% recovery rate for tocopherol in liver homogenates.
Main Results:
- Established a reliable assay for liver tocopherol measurement with high recovery rates.
- Observed very low tocopherol levels in fetal liver, with a gradual increase throughout gestation.
- Found that infant tocopherol levels post-birth were elevated compared to fetal levels but remained significantly lower (≤1/3) than adult levels.
Conclusions:
- Tocopherol levels are indeed low in fetal and newborn infants.
- The established assay provides a reliable method for assessing liver tocopherol concentration.
- Infants' tocopherol status requires further investigation due to persistently low levels compared to adults.