Vitamin E Molecule Chemical Structure

Tocopherol has 4 different structures of which (R,R,R)-alpha-tocopherol is known as vitamin E. Its molecular structure consists of a 6-membered chromanol ring with a hydroxyl group (−OH) attached at carbon 6. The 3 methyl groups attached at carbon 2,5 & 7 define it as the alpha form of tocopherol. In addition, it has a hydrophobic phytyl side chain attached at the carbon 2-position of the ring. The vitamin E molecule is highly lipophilic (fat soluble).

Vitamin E's biological importance can be attributed to the chromanol ring's hydroxyl group which is believed to neutralize free radicals which can cause oxidative damage to cell membranes, lipids, and proteins. The lipophilic tail anchors alpha-tocopherol within lipid bilayers, enhancing its effectiveness as a membrane-bound antioxidant. The purported antioxidant properties are also associated with a possible anticancer function & may play a role in red blood cell production.