The role of vitamin E in atherogenesis: linking the chemical, biological and clinical aspects of the disease

Atherosclerosis is a disease involving both oxidative modifications and dis balance of the immune system. Vitamin E, an endogenous redox-active compone nt of circulating lipoproteins and (sub)cellular membranes whose levels can be manipulated by supplementation, has been shown to play a role in the in itiation and progression of the disease. Recent data reveal that the activi ties of vitamin E go beyond its redox function. Moreover, it has been shown that vitamin E can exacerbate certain processes associated with atherogene sis. In this essay we review the role of vitamin E in chemistry and biology of atherosclerosis, and suggest that these two facets decide the clinical manifestation and outcome of the disease. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.