Tocotrienols in Enhancing Genomic Stability, Antioxidant Defense and Telomerase Activity in Older Adults

This double-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a tocotrienol-enriched drink on markers of aging, oxidative stress, genomic integrity, and psychological well-being in 67 community-dwelling older adults (mean age ≈ 60.5 years) over six months. Participants were divided into two groups, with assessments conducted at baseline, mid-point, and study end. Compared to placebo, the tocotrienol-supplemented group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in psychological quality of life (QOL‑Psychological, p = 0.014), as well as favorable trends across key biomarkers: reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF‑α (p = 0.04), enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities including total superoxide dismutase (T‑SOD, p = 0.04) and catalase (p = 0.02), and elevated telomerase levels (p = 0.02), indicative of improved genomic stability. Daily consumption of a tocotrienol-enriched functional beverage over six months appears to bolster antioxidant defense systems, mitigate inflammation, support DNA and telomere integrity, and enhance psychological well-being among older adults, suggesting promising avenues for nutritional strategies aimed at healthy aging.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/13/2179