Mitochondrial Protection against Arsenic Toxicity by a Novel Gamma Tocopherol Analogue in Rat

Gamma-tocopherol along with the other forms of vitamin E plays a vital role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and protecting against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Recent evidences suggest that gamma-tocopherol has characteristics that are not shared by alpha-tocopherol. In present study, based on the significant role of gammatocopherol as a particular antioxidant and its substantial effect on the mitochondria, a new derivative of gammatocopherol for improved penetration in mitochondrial matrix and also enhanced anti oxidative activity was synthesized and its protective effects were evaluated. Our results showed that this derivative protected mitochondria more efficiently than gamma tocopherol against oxidative damage caused by arsenic. As mitochondria are presumably the involved organelle in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases including diabetes and cancer, our results may perhaps open a new view for treatment or prevention of those disorders.