VITAMIN-E AS A UNIVERSAL ANTIOXIDANT AND STABILIZER OF BIOLOGICAL-MEMBRANES

The known literature data concerning the mechanisms of molecular actio n of vitamin E in biological membrane systems are reviewed. The role o f vitamin E possessing a broad range of biological activities as a uni versal stabilizer of biological membranes in the processes of normal o xygen metabolism and peroxidation, as well as' during disorders of nor mal metabolism resulting in pathological alterations has been discusse d. The participation of vitamin E in redox reactions taking place in l ipid media, its interaction with singlet oxygen, free fatty acids and enzyme systems are considered. Physiologic effects of vitamin E and it s ability to prevent numerous pathologies are also described. It was c oncluded that vitamin E is a universal participant of antioxidant defe nce reactions in biological membranes, since it acts at all stages of membrane oxidative damage.