Vitamin E and Prostate Cancer- A Review

The incidence of prostate cancer is increasing and there is continuing research into possible preventive treatments. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, has been studied as a chemoprotective agent in recent literature with α-Tocopherol being the most prominently studied. Although α-Tocopherol is found in highest concentration in the body, there are seven other isomers of vitamin E as tocopherols and tocotrienols, most notably γ-Tocopherol, which is most common in nature. Chemoprotective evidence of high dose α-Tocopherol is lacking however there is promising evidence indicating the benefit of γ-Tocopherol in prevention and treatment of carcinoma of the prostate. Recent studies showing a correlation between high α-Tocopherol and prostate cancer is likely due to this specific isomers effect on decreasing γ-Tocopherol levels. This review thoroughly analyzes the relationship and impact of vitamin E on prostate cancer covering biogenesis, mechanism of action and review of animal and human trials. It is the purpose of this review to expose the evidence behind all vitamin E isomers and prostate cancer. Our review indicates further research is required as there is promising evidence of the role of vitamin E, particularly γ-Tocopherol, and prostate cancer prevention.