Serum alpha- and gamma-tocopherol levels in atopic mothers and their infants are correlated

Ulla Hoppu, Pirjo Salo-Väänänen, Anna-Maija Lampi, Erika Isolauri

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

Abstract

"Background: Vitamin E may have immunomodulatory properties beyond its antioxidant function. The objective here was to assess the alpha- and gamma-tocopherol status and its correlation between atopic mothers and their infants. Methods: Mothers with atopic disease were recruited at the end of gestation and their infants were followed up. Serum samples from mothers and infants were collected at the infants' age of 1 month. Atopic dermatitis was diagnosed during the 1st year of life and skin prick tests were performed at 1 year. Results: Infants' serum gamma- and alpha-tocopherol to fat ratios were significantly correlated with maternal serum ratios (r = 0.70, p < 0.0001 and r = 0.52, p = 0.004, respectively). In infants the serum alpha-tocopherol/ fat was higher and the gamma-tocopherol/ fat ratio lower than in mothers. Serum tocopherol levels were not associated with skin prick test reactions or atopic dermatitis in the infants. Conclusions: Maternal tocopherol status determines that of the infant. Different tocopherol forms may have different serum levels and roles in the regulation of inflammatory diseases. Copyright (C) 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel."
Original languageEnglish
JournalBiology of the Neonate
Volume88
Issue number1
Pages (from-to)24-26
Number of pages3
ISSN0006-3126
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2005
MoE publication typeA1 Journal article-refereed

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