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.