DL-alpha-tocopherol

Description

dl-alpha-Tocopherol is a synthetic form of vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin with potent antioxidant properties. Considered essential for the stabilization of biological membranes (especially those with high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids), d-alpha-Tocopherol is a potent peroxyl radical scavenger and inhibits noncompetitively cyclooxygenase activity in many tissues, resulting in a decrease in prostaglandin production. Vitamin E also inhibits angiogenesis and tumor dormancy through suppressing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene transcription. (NCI04)

Specification

Is DL alpha tocopheryl natural?
Dl-alpha-tocopherol is a synthetic form of alpha-tocopherol. This synthetic form of alpha-tocopherol is less bioavailable than the d-alpha-tocopherol and is only half as potent, notes the Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute.

Which is better d-alpha tocopherol or DL alpha tocopherol?
The key difference between DL alpha tocopheryl acetate and D alpha tocopherol is that the DL alpha tocopheryl acetate occurs as a synthetic racemic mixture whereas the D alpha tocopherol is a natural compound. Moreover, the natural D form of alpha-tocopherol is more active than DL alpha tocopheryl acetate