Alpha-tocopheryl succinate (α-TOS) influences cell vitality and enzyme activity in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells

Abstract

Background: One of the most important strategies in research and development of new anticancer agents is the tumor-specific induction of apoptosis. The effects of semisynthetic derivative of vitamin E, (α-TOS, D-α-tocopheryl succinate), appear to be largely restricted to malignant cells. Methods: We investigated the in vivo effects of intraperitoneally administered α-TOS on vitality of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells (EAC) in mice, as well as the influence of α-TOS on specific activity of enzymes involved in antioxidative mechanisms in EAC cells. Results: According to our results, the intraperitoneal application of α-TOS induces the decrease of the EAC vitality, and the statistically significant alteration of the glutathione-dependent enzyme activity in EAC cells. Conclusion: We may conclude that α-TOS is an important micronutrient, with significant impact on vitality and metabolism of malignant cells. © 2007, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, Sremska Kamenica.