ABSTRACT
Tocotrienols (T3s), together with their tocopherol counterparts, compose the vitamin E family. The difference between T3s and tocopherols is that T3s possess an unsaturated isoprenoid side chain with 3 double bonds, whereas tocopherols contain a 16-carbon saturated phytyl side chain. Based on the number and location of the methyl groups on their chromanol rings, T3s and tocopherols exist in α-, β-, γ-, and δ-forms. Emerging evidence suggests that T3s exhibit more potent anticancer effects than tocopherols (reviewed in Aggarwal et al., 2010). In addition, T3s also display activity in stimulating immune response (Mahalingam et al., 2011; Ren et al., 2010) and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (Das et al., 2005, 2008). To better evaluate the ef•cacy of vitamin E in vivo, it is essential to understand their bioavailability and metabolism. This chapter will discuss the bioavailability and metabolism of T3s and the factors that may in›uence these processes in vivo.
