New reviews highlight potential neuroprotective effects of vitamin E

Two recently published reviews examined the neuroprotective effects of tocotrienol, a subtype of vitamin E. The first study¹, “Scoping Review: The Role of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction as a Potent Neuroprotective Agent,” was published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in August 2025.

This literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, and involved 24 studies, both in vitro and in vivo, that fit the inclusion criteria. The studies highlighted the potential mechanisms of action that tocotrienol uses to offer neuroprotection, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by lessening pro-inflammatory moderator activity; regulating metabolic pathways; and regulating neuronal genes, proteins, and cellular function maintenance. Additionally, animal studies showed improvements in memory and cognitions after treatments with tocotrienols.

The review concluded that tocotrienol supplementation had potential to support healthy aging by slowing the changes associated with neurodegeneration that occur before symptoms of cognitive decline begin. It also explained that further studies are needed for a more complete understanding of how tocotrienols function.

Another study², “Shifting Perspectives on the Role of Tocotrienol vs. Tocopherol in Brain Health: A Scoping Review,” was published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in June 2025, and aimed to synthesize studies from the past 10 years on tocotrienol and tocopherol in humans. The researchers analyzed 42 articles and concluded that increased cognitive performance, reduced neuroinflammation, and synaptic protein preservation was associated with tocopherols, while tocotrienol levels in certain parts of the brain were associated with structural protection, especially in white matter. Additionally, synergistic effects were seen between the two compounds, which could possibly be advantageous when combined in supplementation, the researchers suggested, also adding that more research is needed for dose-optimization, long-term exposures, and delivery methods.

Referencing these studies, Bryan See, vice president of PhytoGaia, stated in an August 19, 2025, press release: “At PhytoGaia, we are a proud supplier of TocoGaia – full spectrum tocotrienol complex that is backed by robust science and uncompromising quality. For our partners and brand owners, TocoGaia offers a unique opportunity to differentiate their formulations with a next-generation vitamin E that delivers more than conventional tocopherols. With the latest science reinforcing tocotrienols’ potent neuroprotective potential, TocoGaia is the perfect ingredient for companies looking to innovate and create value in areas such as in brain and cognitive health, healthy aging and functional nutrition.”

“Backed by growing scientific evidence, tocotrienols are emerging as promising neuroprotective agents that support and protect brain cells, cognitive functions and memory as well as healthier aging,” stated Ariati Aris, PhD, scientific affairs specialist at PhytoGaia.

Aris also referenced a study published in Nutrients in June 2025³ that examined the effects of a beverage enriched with PhytoGaia’s TocoGaia, which is derived from palm oil. “A recent published clinical study shows that TocoGaia enhances psychological well-being, modulates oxidative stress, and supports genomic stability in aging populations. Building on this, we are now planning a new randomized-controlled trial with TocoGaia for cognitive health, which we believe will further validate tocotrienols’ role as next-generation brain phytonutrient.”

References

1. Yunita, E.; Nasaruddin, ML; Ramli, NZ; Yahaya, MF; Ahmad Damanhuri, H. Scoping Review: The Role of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction as a Potent Neuroprotective Agent. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7691. DOI: 10.3390/ijms26167691
2. Razali, RA; Ngah, WZW; Makpol, S.; Yanagisawa, D.; Kato, T.; Tooyama, I. Shifting Perspectives on the Role of Tocotrienol vs. Tocopherol in Brain Health: A Scoping Review. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6339. DOI: 10.3390/ijms26136339
3. Sharif, R.; Wai, MK; Choon, OT; Abdul Hafid, SR; Lee, TY. Tocotrienol-Enriched Beverage Enhances Psychological Well-Being, Antioxidant Defense, and Genomic Stability in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2179. DOI: 10.3390/nu17132179