Vitamin E
[CAS# 59-02-9]

Identification

• Classification: Pharmaceutical intermediate >> Heterocyclic compound intermediate >> Pyridine compound >> Pyridine derivative
• Name: Vitamin E
• Synonyms: D-alpha-Tocopherol; (2R)-3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-[(4R,8R)-4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl]-2H-1-benzopyran-6-ol
• Molecular Formula: C₂₉H₅₀O₂
• Molecular Weight: 430.71
• CAS Registry Number: 59-02-9
• EC Number: 200-412-2
• SMILES: CC1=C(C2=C(CC[C@@](O2)(C)CCC[C@H](C)CCC[C@H](C)CCCC(C)C)C(=C1O)C)C

Properties

• Solubility: Insoluble 2.978e-007 mg/L (25 °C water)
• Density: 0.9±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*
• Index of Refraction: 1.495, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 202.73 °C
• Boiling Point: 485.9±0.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, 478.87 °C
• alpha: 24 ° (c=2, in isooctane 25 °C)
• Flash Point: 210.2±24.4 °C, Calc.^*

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H317
• Safety Statements: P261-P272-P280-P302+P352-P321-P333+P313-P362+P364-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H413
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1B	H317

Discovery and Applications

Vitamin E, a vital nutrient and antioxidant, was discovered in 1922 by Herbert Evans and Katharine Bishop. They observed that rats fed a diet devoid of this nutrient became infertile, and subsequent research identified the active component as tocopherol, which was isolated in 1936. The term "tocopherol" is derived from Greek words meaning "to bear offspring" (tocos) and "to bring forth" (pherein), highlighting its role in fertility. Over time, researchers recognized that Vitamin E comprises eight different compounds, including four tocopherols and four tocotrienols, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining health.

Vitamin E is widely used in dietary supplements to support overall health. As an antioxidant, it helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This protection is crucial for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and immune function. Vitamin E supplements are often recommended to enhance skin health, reduce signs of aging, and support cardiovascular health by preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

In the cosmetics industry, Vitamin E is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduce scars and stretch marks, and protect against UV-induced damage. Its ability to neutralize free radicals makes it a key component in anti-aging creams, serums, and lotions.

Vitamin E is used as a natural preservative in the food industry. Its antioxidant properties help prevent the oxidation of fats and oils, extending the shelf life of food products.

Vitamin E is utilized in pharmaceuticals for its therapeutic benefits. It is used to treat and prevent conditions related to oxidative stress, such as certain types of anemia and skin disorders. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial in managing chronic inflammatory conditions and supporting immune function.

Similar to its use in human nutrition, Vitamin E is also added to animal feed to ensure proper health and development in livestock and pets. It helps improve immune function, reproductive health, and overall vitality in animals.

Vitamin E continues to be a subject of extensive research. Scientists investigate its potential role in preventing chronic diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Understanding how Vitamin E influences cellular processes and protects against oxidative damage is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies.

References

2024. Algal synthetic communities in industrial wastewater treatment: hurdles and opportunities. Rendiconti Lincei. Scienze Fisiche e Naturali.
DOI: 10.1007/s12210-024-01292-3

2024. Foundation of Nutraceuticals in Preventive Medicine. Nutraceuticals: A New Millennium Approach for Preventive Medicine.
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-76481-3_2

1979. Protection of Granulocytes by Vitamin E in Glutathione Synthetase Deficiency. The New England Journal of Medicine.
DOI: 10.1056/nejm197910253011702