Tocopheral derivatives and uses thereof

Unique chemical compounds inhibit the rapid oxidative metabolism of Vit E

Description
Vit E is comprised of 8 different compounds found in nature; 4 tocopherols and 4 tocotrienols. Our diet mostly consists of γ-tocopherol; however it is quickly metabolized in the body. The potentially beneficial biological activities of Vit E components include anti-inflammatory properties, inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis, anti-cancer effects and protection against neurodegeneration. These inventors have discovered unique chemical compounds that can inhibit the rapid oxidative metabolism of these Vit E compounds and thereby elevate the circulating levels in the body.

Potential Benefits
• These agents allow the increased in vivo half lives of tocopherols and tocotrienols.
• Implications for treatment of hypercholesterolaemia, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.

Novelty
Currently, there are no known agents used to inhibit tocopherol metabolism. Furthermore, the compounds demonstrated to cause this inhibition do not exist in the chemical literature.

Development Stage
The lead compound has been tested in various human cell culture models and has been shown to completely inhibit metabolism of the derivatives in question. Studies are ongoing to evaluate toxicity and efficacy in animal models.

Patent Status: PCT has been filed.

Inventor(s): Jeffrey Atkinson, Professor, Chemistry, Brock
Stephen Ohnmacht, Grad student, Chemistry, Brock