Effect of Tocotrienol-Rich Fraction on Superoxide Dismutase 3 Expression in Mice Liver

Background and Objective: Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is responsible for the dismutation of superoxide radicals and protect cells from toxic impairment due to excessive oxygen exposure. Overexpression of the superoxide dismutase 3 isoenzyme (SOD3) had been suggested to prevent cancer growth. Tocotrienols are the more potent members of the vitamin E family. The objective of this study was to investigate the dose-dependent effect of Tocotrienol Rich Fraction (TRF) supplementation on liver SOD3 gene and protein expression. Materials and Methods: Thirty male ICR white mice were divided into five groups [control, TRF-treated groups (T200, T500, T1000) and BHA (the positive control)]. After 14 days of treatment, the animals were sacrificed. Liver RNA and protein were extracted for qPCR and Western blotting to determine SOD3 gene and protein expressions and analysed using one-way ANOVA and Student's t-test. Results: TRF oral administration significantly increased liver SOD3 gene and protein expressions dose-dependently, compared to controls. Liver SOD3 gene and protein expressions are significantly correlated with the doses of TRF administered. SOD3 gene expression is significantly highly correlated with SOD3 protein expression. Conclusion: In conclusion, TRF oral treatment for 14 days resulted in increased SOD3 gene and protein expression in mice liver in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest expression seen in mice treated with 1000 mg kg(-1) TRF.