Case Number CH-033

Inventors: Bruce Ames, PhD, et al.

Abstract
The invention provides methods and compositions for use in treating inflammatory diseases.

Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis asthma and hepatitis are among the leading causes of death and disability in the world. Chronic inflammation contributes to the development of degenerative diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases and neuron-degenerative disorders.

Vitamin E consists of eight compounds: four tocopherols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-); and four tocotrienols (alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-). Among them, only alpha-tocopherol has been extensively studied. Gamma-tocopherol is the major form of vitamin E in the US diet. However it has drawn little attention compared with alpha-tocopherol, the primary form of vitamin E found in most supplements. Delta-tocopherol is another form of vitamin E that is rich in some food sources (also found with gamma-tocopherol, e.g. in soybeans and soybean oil).  Tocotrienols are mainly abundant in palm oil.

Advantage
We have shown in an animal model of inflammation, which mimics joint diseases, such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, that gamma-tocopherol inhibits inflammation by blocking three pathways: pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), leukotriene B4 (LTB4), and TN-alpha.  Accordingly, the invention provides methods and compositions for inhibiting or reducing inflammation or any manifestation, thereof, and for reducing the likelihood of developing or promoting a resistance to inflammation or any manifestation thereof.  Further combinations of tocopherols and trienols with other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as cyclooxygenase inhibitors, provide enhanced therapeutic effects, compared with the use of these drugs alone.

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