Tocotrienol-treated neuronal cells experience enhanced cell proliferation and neurogenesis in recent in vitro study

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A recent in vitro study¹ found that hippocampal neuronal cells treated with tocotrienol-rich fractions saw enhanced cell proliferation and neurogenesis. As explained in the study, neurogenesis and long-term potentiation of neurons in the hippocampus influence memory formation. Additionally, vitamin E has previously demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.

Building off the results of a previous randomized, placebo-controlled study on memory and attention span after two weeks of tocotrienol supplements, researchers aimed to better understand the mechanism and signalling pathways of this effect on a cellular level. Using two cell models, they examined the protein expression and localization in hippocampal HT22 neuronal cells using cells treated with tocotrienol-rich fractions from Davos Life Science.

Results showed that the cells treated with tocotrienol-rich fractions saw increases in cell proliferation through the activation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin receptor kinase B pathway as well as elevated levels of key proteins, namely cyclin D and E, indicating an increase in cell cycle progression and proliferation. The increased phosphorylation of proteins like Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II and glutamate receptor 1was observed could also lead to stronger synapses, essential for learning and memory, to improve reaction times and neural efficiency.

Davos Life Science is a subsidiary of Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad (KLK), a producer of phyotnutrients. DavosLife E3 Tocotrienols contain the full spectrum of Tocotrienols and α-Tocopherol, which have also been studied for their effects on heart health. The DavosLive tocotrienols are sourced from non-GMO palm fruits. KLK Oleo and Davos Life Science funded the research study.

Reference

1. Neo, J.R.E.; Wang, C.J.; Chai, N.C.L.; Lieo, E.G.B.; Yeo, M.; Loong, H.Y.; Ung, Y.W.; Yap, W.N. Tocotrienol-rich fraction enhances cell proliferation and memory formation in hippocampal HT22 neuronal cells through BDNF/TrkB pathway. Journal of Functional Foods. 2024. 116, 106178. DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2024.106178