Selenium (Selenomethionine)

BACKGROUND: To assess the clinical benefits of Selenium (Se) supplementation in patients with Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT). METHODS: Eight databases were searched for randomized controlled trials. The outcomes of interest were thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4). The study protocol is registered on INPLASY, DOI number is 10.37766/inplasy2022.10.0085. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies with a total of 1610 subjects were included. Serum TPOAb was significantly reduced after Se supplementation after 3 months (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.74 to -0.18, P = .001) and 6 months (SMD = -0.80, 95%CI: -1.38 to -0.21, P = .008). The serum TgAb levels decreased at 3 months (SMD = -0.46, 95%CI: -0.79 to -0.12, P = .007) but not at 6 months. Significant effects on declining the TSH titers were found after 6 months (SMD = -0.18, 95%CI = -0.35 to -0.01; P = .03). CONCLUSION: Se supplementation help reduce TPOAb and TSH levels in HT patients, leading to improvements in well-being or mood. Selenomethionine is more effective than NaSe and Se-yeast in the teatment of Hashimoto thyroid.

BACKGROUND: Nowadays, there is increasing interest in optimizing the beneficial effects on egg quality and production by investigating various levels and sources of Se. METHODS: Data of various forms, sources and levels of Se were analyzed using a meta-analysis approach in terms of their effects on production, antioxidant activity and egg Se deposition of laying hens by using 81 peer-reviewed publications. RESULTS: Overall, laying hens' performance and egg quality attributes were not affected by Se supplementation, except for minor changes in egg weight and eggshell thickness in response to higher Se levels in diets. Noticeable effects were found on antioxidant activities where organic Se outperformed the inorganic form. Strong linear relationships between Se levels in the diet and Se content of whole egg, egg yolk and egg albumen were found where Se in the form of selenomethionine (SM) exhibited a stronger relationship with Se content in whole egg (R2 = 0.954), egg yolk (R2 = 0.972) and egg albumen (R2 = 0.926) than other forms of organic Se and inorganic Se (sodium selenite). Also observed was a Se preferential deposition in egg yolk compared with egg albumen especially for SM, indicating a higher bioavailability and deposition rate of SM than other Se sources. CONCLUSION: Various forms of Se could be safely supplemented to diets at high doses of up to 5 mg kg-1 without adversely affecting hens' performance while enhancing antioxidant status. Supplementation with SM could be the most effective strategy to improve egg Se status among other forms of Se which may be beneficial for consumers. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Exercise overproduces oxygen reactive species (ROS) and eventually exceeds the body's antioxidant capacity to neutralize them. The ROS produce damaging effects on the cell membrane and contribute to skeletal muscle damage. Selenium (Se), a natural mineral trace element, is an essential component of selenoproteins that plays an important role in antioxidant defense. The activity of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase (GPx), a highly-efficient antioxidant enzyme, is closely dependent on the presence of Se. These properties of Se may be potentially applicable to improve athletic performance and training recovery. We systematically searched for published studies to evaluate the effectiveness of Se supplementation on antioxidant defense system, muscle performance, hormone response, and athletic performance among physically active individuals. We used the Preferred Reporting Elements for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines and searched in SCOPUS, Web of Science (WOS), and PubMed databases to identify published studies until March 2020. The systematic review incorporated original studies with randomized controlled crossover or parallel design in which intake of Se administered once a day was compared with the same placebo conditions. No exclusions were applied for the type of physical exercise performed, the sex, nor the age of the participants. Among 150 articles identified in the search, 6 met the criteria and were included in the systematic review. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the McMaster Critical Review Form. Oral Se supplementation with 180 µg/day or 240 µg/day (selenomethionine) and 200 µg/day (Sodium Selenite), significantly decreased lipid hydroperoxide levels and increased GPx in plasma, erythrocyte, and muscle. No significant effects were observed on athletic performance, testosterone hormone levels, creatine kinase activity, and exercise training-induced adaptations on oxidative enzyme activities or on muscle fiber type myosin heavy chain expression. In addition, Se supplementation showed to have a dampening effect on the mitochondria changes in chronic and acute exercise. In summary, the use of Se supplem

BACKGROUND & AIM: HIV infection has been linked to selenium deficiency which, in turn, is thought to be associated with a high risk of tuberculosis and mortality in HIV-infected patients. Furthermore, several trials have reported the beneficial effects of selenium supplementation in patients with HIV. However, the evidence remains inconclusive. Our study aimed to investigate whether daily selenium supplementation in patients infected with HIV delays the progression of HIV infection. METHODS: A systematic review was performed using EMBASE and Medline databases from January 2000 to June 2018. We included randomized clinical trials in adults comparing selenium with placebo and reporting outcomes including its effect on HIV viral load and cluster of differentiation 4 cell count (CD4). RESULTS: Six out of the 507 retrieved articles that met the inclusion criteria were used in this review. Reviewed studies show that daily supplementation with 200 μg selenium may improve the rate of cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) count. The length of selenium supplementation and follow-up varied from 9 to 24 months. Supplements were well tolerated in all reviewed studies. Whether daily selenium supplementation in HIV-infected persons suppresses HIV-infection requires further investigation as existing data are heterogeneous. CONCLUSIONS: We found some clinical evidence that selenium supplementation can delay CD4 decline in HIV-infected patients, thus prolonging the onset of AIDS. However, we did not find quantifiable evidence that selenium supplementation suppresses or reduces HIV viral load.

BACKGROUND: Selenium is an essential trace element with fundamental effects on human biology. Trace elements deficiency is not an uncommon finding in autoimmune diseases. This deficiency may be a consequence of autoimmune diseases or may contribute to their etiology. With regard to evidence showing the association between selenium deficiency and generation of reactive oxygen species and subsequent inflammation, reviewing the role of selenium in collagen vascular diseases could help researchers to devise strategies for managing these diseases. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to evaluate the role of selenium and autoimmune rheumatic diseases. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: All the studies on the use of selenium without any limitations in terms of the preparation method, administration route, or formulation process were included in the study. The exclusion criteria were: 1) Articles published in languages other than English, 2) Administration of chemical and hormonal drugs rather than selenium, 3) Investigation of the effects of selenium on the autoimmune problems in animal models, and 4) Insufficiency of the presented data or poor description of the applied methods. Furthermore, review articles, meta-analyses, expert opinions, editorial letters, case reports, consensus statements, and qualitative studies were excluded from the study. DATA EXTRACTION: In this systematic review, articles were evaluated through searching following keywords in combination with selenium: "autoimmune rheumatic diseases "or "scleroderma" or "systemic sclerosis" or "Behcet's disease" or "Sjögren syndrome" or "systemic lupus erythematosus" or "musculoskeletal diseases" or "rheumatoid arthritis" or "vasculitis" or "seronegative arthritis" or "antiphospholipid antibody syndrome". RESULTS: Of 312 articles, 280 were excluded and 32 articles were entered in this study. Based on the majority of studies assessing selenium level in patients with collagen vascular diseases, lower selenium levels were observed in these patients. Moreover, the majority of articles showed an improvement in clinical symptoms of collagen vascular diseases

Selenium is a trace element required for a range of cellular functions. It is widely used for the biosynthesis of the unique amino acid selenocysteine [Sec], which is a structural element of selenoproteins. This systematic review focused on the possible relation between selenium and metabolic risk factors. The literature was searched via PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Searches were not restricted by time or language. Relevant studies were selected in three phases. After an initial quality assessment, two reviewers extracted all the relevant data, whereas the third reviewer checked their extracted data. All evidence came from experimental and laboratory studies. Selenoprotein P is the best indicator for selenium nutritional levels. In addition, high levels of selenium may increase the risk of metabolic syndrome while the lack of sufficient selenium may also promote metabolic syndrome. selenium supplementation in subjects with sufficient serum selenium levels has a contrary effect on blood pressure, LDL, and total cholesterol. According to the bioavailability of different types of selenium supplementation such as selenomethionine, selenite and selenium-yeast, it seems that the best nutritional type of selenium is selenium-yeast. Regarding obtained results of longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials, selenium supplementation should not be recommended for primary or secondary cardio-metabolic risk prevention in populations with adequate selenium status.

Selenium may play a beneficial role in multi-factorial illnesses with genetic and environmental linkages via epigenetic regulation in part via glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity. A meta-analysis was undertaken to quantify the effects of dietary selenium supplementation on the activity of overall GPx activity in different tissues and animal species and to compare the effectiveness of different forms of dietary selenium. GPx activity response was affected by both the dose and form of selenium (p < 0.001). There were differences between tissues on the effects of selenium supplementation on GPx activity (p < 0.001); however, there was no evidence in the data of differences between animal species (p = 0.95). The interactions between dose and tissue, animal species and form were significant (p < 0.001). Tissues particularly sensitive to changes in selenium supply include red blood cells, kidney and muscle. The meta-analysis identified that for animal species selenium-enriched foods were more effective than selenomethionine at increasing GPx activity.

BACKGROUND: Hashimoto's thyroiditis is a common auto-immune disorder. The most common presenting symptoms may include anxiety, negative mood, depression, dry skin, cold intolerance, puffy eyes, muscle cramps and fatigue, deep voice, constipation, slow thinking and poor memory. Clinical manifestations of the disease are defined primarily by low levels of thyroid hormones; therefore it is treated by hormone replacement therapy, which usually consists of levothyroxine (LT4). Selenium might reduce antibody levels and result in a decreased dosage of LT4 and may provide other beneficial effects (e.g. on mood and health-related quality of life). OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of selenium supplementation on Hashimoto's thyroiditis. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following databases up to 2 October 2012: CENTRAL in The Cochrane Library (2012, Issue 10), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science; we also screened reference lists of included studies and searched several online trial registries for ongoing trials (5 November 2012). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled clinical trials that assessed the effects of selenium supplementation for adults diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Study selection, data extraction, assessment of risk of bias, and analyses were carried out by two independent review authors. We assessed the quality of the evidence of included studies using GRADE. We were unable to conduct a meta-analysis because clinical heterogeneity between interventions that were investigated is substantial. MAIN RESULTS: Four studies at unclear to high risk of bias comprising 463 participants were included. The mean study duration was 7.5 months (range 3 to 18 months). One of our primary outcomes－'change from baseline in health related quality of life'－and two of our secondary outcomes－'change from baseline in LT4 replacement dosage at end of the study' and 'economic costs'－were not assessed in any of the studies. One study at high risk of bias showed statistically significant improvement in subjective well-being with sodium selenite 200 μg plus titrated LT4 compared with placebo plus titrated LT4 (relative risk (RR) 4.67, 95% confide

BACKGROUND: Over the last decade there has been enhanced awareness of the appreciable morbidity of thyroid dysfunction, particularly thyroid deficiency. Since treating clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism may reduce adverse obstetric outcomes, it is crucial to identify which interventions are safe and effective. OBJECTIVES: To identify interventions used in the management of hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism pre-pregnancy or during pregnancy and to ascertain the impact of these interventions on important maternal, fetal, neonatal and childhood outcomes. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (31 March 2013). SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomised controlled trials that compared a pharmacological intervention for hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism pre-pregnancy or during pregnancy with another intervention or placebo. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors assessed trial eligibility and quality and extracted the data. MAIN RESULTS: We included four RCTs of moderate risk of bias involving 362 women. In one trial of 115 women, levothyroxine therapy to treat pregnant euthyroid (normal thyroid function) women with thyroid peroxidase antibodies was not shown to reduce pre-eclampsia significantly (risk ratio (RR) 0.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.11 to 3.48) but did significantly reduce preterm birth by 72% (RR 0.28; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.80). Two trials of 30 and 48 hypothyroid women respectively compared levothyroxine doses, but both trials reported only biochemical outcomes. A trial of 169 women compared the trace element selenomethionine (selenium) with placebo and no significant differences were seen for either pre-eclampsia (RR 1.44; 95% CI 0.25 to 8.38) or preterm birth (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.20 to 4.61). None of the four trials reported on childhood neurodevelopmental delay.There was a non-significant trend towards fewer miscarriages with levothyroxine, and selenium showed some favourable impact on postpartum thyroid function and a decreased incidence of moderate to advanced postpartum thyroiditis. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This review found no dif

BACKGROUND: Selenium is a trace element essential to humans. Higher selenium exposure and selenium supplements have been suggested to protect against several types of cancers. OBJECTIVES: Two research questions were addressed in this review: What is the evidence for1. an aetiological relationship between selenium exposure and cancer risk in women and men?2. the efficacy of selenium supplementation for cancer prevention in women and men? SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched electronic databases and bibliographies of reviews and included publications. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included prospective observational studies to answer research question (a) and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to answer research question (b). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We conducted random effects meta-analyses of epidemiological data when five or more studies were retrieved for a specific outcome. We made a narrative summary of data from RCTs. MAIN RESULTS: We included 49 prospective observational studies and six RCTs. In epidemiologic data, we found a reduced cancer incidence (summary odds ratio (OR) 0.69 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 0.91) and mortality (OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.83) with higher selenium exposure. Cancer risk was more pronouncedly reduced in men (incidence: OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.05) than in women (incidence: OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.45 to 1.77). These findings have potential limitations due to study design, quality and heterogeneity of the data, which complicated the interpretation of the summary statistics.The RCTs found no protective efficacy of selenium yeast supplementation against non-melanoma skin cancer or L-selenomethionine supplementation against prostate cancer. Study results for the prevention of liver cancer with selenium supplements were inconsistent and studies had an unclear risk of bias. The results of the Nutritional Prevention of Cancer Trial (NPCT) and SELECT raised concerns about possible harmful effects of selenium supplements. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: No reliable conclusions can be drawn regarding a causal relationship between low selenium exposure and an increased risk of cancer. Despite evidence for an inverse association between selenium exposure

Selenium (Se) is a trace mineral that plays a critical role in public health. It is a vital component of numerous enzymes and proteins called selenoproteins, thus affecting a wide range of biological activities. Hashimoto's disease is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. In addition to being a critical micronutrient for thyroid health, selenium has a direct association with liver health. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of Selenium on lipid factors, thyroid factors (anti-TPO and TSH), and liver enzymes. A double-blind, randomized clinical trial was conducted, enrolling 40 patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis in two equal control (placebo) and intervention (Selenium) groups. Participants received 200 micrograms of Selenium over 60 days, with blood samples collected before and after the intervention. The spectrophotometric method was employed to measure total blood catalase, anti-TPO, TSH, malondialdehyde, serum lipid profile, and liver factors. The results were then subjected to statistical analysis. The study revealed a significant decrease in plasma MDA levels in response to selenium consumption. Additionally, a notable increase in hemoglobin levels was observed in the experimental group following the intervention, reaching a statistical significance of P<0.05. However, catalase enzyme, lipid profile components, and liver enzymes in the intervention group remained largely unchanged compared to the pre-intervention and control groups (P>0.05).TSH and anti-TPO levels exhibited a relative decrease in the intervention group (P>0.05). The findings of this study suggest a potential association between selenium consumption and improved serum lipid factors, liver enzymes, anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody, MDA, and HGB levels in individuals diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

PURPOSE: Selenium (Se) supplementation may help reduce inflammation and disease activity in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. We investigated the therapeutic effects of Se administration in cases with mild-to-moderate active UC. METHODS: A multicenter, double-blind, randomized clinical trial (RCT) was conducted on 100 cases with active mild-to-moderate UC. The patients were randomly allocated to be given an oral selenomethionine capsule (200 mcg/day, n = 50) or a placebo capsule (n = 50) for 10 weeks. The primary outcome was defined as disease activity via the Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index (SCCAI), and secondary outcomes were measured at the end of the study. RESULTS: After 10 weeks, the SCCAI score's mean was reduced in the Se group (P < 0.001). At the end of the intervention, clinical improvement (decline of 3 ≥ score from baseline score) was observed in 19 patients (38%) of the Se group and 3 patients (6%) of the placebo group. The patients with clinical remission (defined as SCCAI ≤ 2) were assigned in the Se group (P = 0.014). The Se group's quality of life and Se serum levels were enhanced at the end of the study (P < 0/001). In the Se group, the mean concentration of interleukin-17 decreased (P < 0/001). However, the levels of interleukin-10 showed no considerable change between the two groups in the 10th week (P = 0.23). CONCLUSION: Se supplementation as add-on therapy with medical management induced remission and improved the quality of life in patients with active mild-to-moderate UC. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER AND DATE OF REGISTRATION: IRCT20091114002709N51; 2020-04-13. © 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany.

Evidence of the effectiveness of zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and physical function parameters in people with overweight and obesity is scarce, while the effects of zinc and selenium on thyroid function and body composition are still a topic of debate and controversy. The aim of this randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial was to examine the effects of a hypocaloric diet and Se-Zn co-supplementation on RMR, thyroid function, body composition, physical fitness, and functional capacity in overweight or obese individuals. Twenty-eight overweight-obese participants (mean BMI: 29.4 ± 4.7) were randomly allocated (1:1) to the supplementation group (n = 14, 31.1 ± 5.5 yrs, 9 females) and the placebo group (n = 14, 32.1 ± 4.8 yrs, 6 females). The participants received Zn (25 mg of zinc gluconate/day) and Se (200 mcg of L-selenomethionine/day) or placebo tablets containing starch for eight weeks. The participants of both groups followed a hypocaloric diet during the intervention. RMR, thyroid function, body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max), and functional capacity (sit-to-stand tests, timed up-and-go test, and handgrip strength) were assessed before and after the intervention. A significant interaction was found between supplementation and time on RMR (p = 0.045), with the intervention group's RMR increasing from 1923 ± 440 to 2364 ± 410 kcal/day. On the other hand, no interaction between supplementation and time on the thyroid function was found (p > 0.05). Regarding the effects of Zn/Se co-administration on Se levels, a significant interaction between supplementation and time on Se levels was detected (p = 0.004). Specifically, the intervention group's Se serum levels were increased from 83.04 ± 13.59 to 119.40 ± 23.93 μg/L. However, Zn serum levels did not change over time (90.61 ± 23.23 to 89.58 ± 10.61 umol/L). Even though all body composition outcomes improved in the intervention group more than placebo at the second measurement, no supplement × time interaction was detected on body composition (p > 0.05). Cardiorespiratory fitness did not change over the intervention. Yet, a main effect of time was found

Selenomethionine (SeMet) did not prevent prostate cancer in the SELECT trial and in two hormone-driven rat models. However, we have shown that daily oral bolus administration of next-generation selenium forms, methylseleninic acid (MSeA) and Se-methylselenocysteine (MSeC) at 3 mg Se/kg body weight, inhibits prostate carcinogenesis in the TRAMP and pten-deficient mouse models and In Vivo growth of human prostate cancer cells. Here, we determined whether these Se forms prevent prostate cancer in a chemically induced-androgen promoted carcinogenesis rat model in which SeMet was not preventive. WU rats were treated with methylnitrosourea, and one week later, slow-release testosterone implants when they were randomized to groups fed AIN-93M diet supplemented with 3 ppm selenium as MSeA or MSeC or control diet. Mean survival, tumor incidence in all accessory sex glands combined (dorsolateral and anterior prostate plus seminal vesicle) and the incidence of tumors confined to dorsolateral and/or anterior prostate were not statistically significantly different among the groups. Thus, MSeA and MSeC feeding was not preventive in this model. The contrast with the inhibitory effects of MSeA and MSeC in mouse models may be due to differences in carcinogenic mechanisms, selenium dosage, delivery mode, and pharmacokinetics or fundamental rat-mouse differences in selenium metabolism.

Anemia is one of the most frequent and earliest complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which impacts a patient’s quality of life and increases the risk of adverse clinical outcomes. Patients’ inflammatory status is strictly related to the occurrence of functional iron deficiency anemia (IDA) because this causes an increase in hepcidin levels with the consequent inhibition of iron absorption and release from cellular stores into blood circulation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of the new oral formulation based on ferric sodium EDTA in combination with vitamin C, folic acid, copper gluconate, zinc gluconate, and selenomethionine (Ferachel Forte®) in patients with moderate CKD and functional IDA, analyzing the inflammatory status in addition to iron blood parameters, in comparison with oral ferrous sulfate and liposomal iron therapies. Sixty-two elderly patients were randomly allocated to one of the following oral treatments for 6 months: ferrous sulfate (Group 1; N = 20), ferric sodium EDTA in combination (Group 2; N = 22), and ferric liposomal formulation (Group 3; N = 20). The evaluated parameters included iron profile parameters of hemoglobin (Hb), sideremia, ferritin, transferrin saturation, C-reactive protein (CRP), and hepcidin. The results showed that in Group 1, there were no improvements. In Group 2, there were statistically significant (p < 0.001) improvements in all evaluated parameters. Finally, in Group 3, there were significant improvements in all evaluated parameters except for hepcidin, which was less than that of Group 2 patients. In conclusion, the findings showed the superior efficacy of the formulation based on ferric sodium EDTA over the other oral iron sources, and that this formulation can contribute to reducing the systemic inflammatory status in patients with CKD.

BACKGROUND: We studied the efficacy and safety of selenium supplementation in patients who had peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) and selenium deficiency. METHODS: We randomly assigned 100 PPCM patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 45% and selenium deficiency (< 70 μg/L) to receive either oral Selenium (L-selenomethionine) 200 μg/day for 3 months or nothing, in addition to recommended therapy, in an open-label randomised trial. The primary outcome was a composite of persistence of heart failure (HF) symptoms, unrecovered LV systolic function (LVEF < 55%) or death from any cause. RESULTS: Over a median of 19 months, the primary outcome occurred in 36 of 46 patients (78.3%) in the selenium group and in 43 of 54 patients (79.6%) in the control group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43-1.09; p = 0.113). Persistence of HF symptoms occurred in 18 patients (39.1%) in the selenium group and in 37 patients (68.5%) in the control group (HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.30-0.93; p = 0.006). LVEF < 55% occurred in 33 patients (71.7%) in the selenium group and in 38 patients (70.4%) in the control group (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.57-1.45; p = 0.944). Death from any cause occurred in 3 patients (6.5%) in the selenium group and in 9 patients (16.7%) in the control group (HR 0.37; 95% CI 0.10-1.37; p = 0.137). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, selenium supplementation did not reduce the risk of the primary outcome, but it significantly reduced HF symptoms, and there was a trend towards a reduction of all-cause mortality. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03081949.

BACKGROUND: Skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not fully reversed by exercise training. Antioxidants are critical for muscle homeostasis and adaptation to training. However, COPD patients experience antioxidant deficits that worsen after training and might impact their muscle response to training. Nutritional antioxidant supplementation in combination with pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) would further improve muscle function, oxidative stress, and PR outcomes in COPD patients. METHODS: Sixty-four COPD patients admitted to inpatient PR were randomized to receive 28 days of oral antioxidant supplementation targeting the previously observed deficits (PR antioxidant group; α-tocopherol: 30 mg/day, ascorbate: 180 mg/day, zinc gluconate: 15 mg/day, selenomethionine: 50 μg/day) or placebo (PR placebo group). PR consisted of 24 sessions of moderate-intensity exercise training. Changes in muscle endurance (primary outcome), oxidative stress, and PR outcomes were assessed. RESULTS: Eighty-one percent of the patients (FEV1 = 58.9 ± 20.0%pred) showed at least one nutritional antioxidant deficit. Training improved muscle endurance in the PR placebo group (+37.4 ± 45.1%, p < 0.001), without additional increase in the PR antioxidant group (-6.6 ± 11.3%; p = 0.56). Nevertheless, supplementation increased the α-tocopherol/γ-tocopherol ratio and selenium (+58 ± 20%, p < 0.001, and +16 ± 5%, p < 0.01, respectively), muscle strength (+11 ± 3%, p < 0.001), and serum total proteins (+7 ± 2%, p < 0.001), and it tended to increase the type I fiber proportion (+32 ± 17%, p = 0.07). The prevalence of muscle weakness decreased in the PR antioxidant group only, from 30.0 to 10.7% (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: While the primary outcome was not significantly improved, COPD patients demonstrate significant improvements of secondary outcomes (muscle strength and other training-refractory outcomes), suggesting a potential "add-on" effect of the nutritional antioxidant supplementation (vitamins C and E, zinc, and selenium) during PR. This trial is registered with NCT01942889.

PURPOSE: Selenium is frequently in nutraceuticals for pregnancy, given its role on fertility and thyroid metabolism. However, most evidence rise from non-controlled studies. We aimed to evaluate the protective effect of selenium against thyroid autoimmunity during and after pregnancy. METHODS: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed and promoted by the Young Italian Endocrinologists Group (EnGioI)-Italian Society of Endocrinology. Forty-five women with thyroiditis in pregnancy were enrolled and randomly assigned to L-selenomethionine (L-Se-Met) 83 mcg/day or placebo (PLB) and evaluated at 10 ± 2 (T1), 36 ± 2 weeks of gestation (T2) and 6 months after delivery (postpartum, PP). RESULTS: We measured a significant reduction of autoantibodies after pregnancy in L-Se-Met group [at PP: TgAb 19.86 (11.59-52.60), p < 0.01; TPOAb 255.00 (79.00-292.00), p < 0.01], and an antibodies titer's rebound in PLB group (TgAb 151.03 ± 182.9, p < 0.01; TPOAb 441.28 ± 512.18, p < 0.01). A significant increase in selenemia was measured in L-Se-Met group at T2 (91.33 ± 25.49; p < 0.01) and PP (93.55 ± 23.53; p = 0.02). Two miscarriage occurred in PLB. No differences were found in thyroid volume, echogenicity, quality of life, maternal/fetal complications. CONCLUSIONS: SERENA study demonstrated a beneficial effect of L-Se-Met supplementation on autoantibody titer during pregnancy and on postpartum thyroiditis recurrence.

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE: Although a beneficial effect of selenium (Se) administration has been proposed in adults with autoimmune thyroiditis (AT), there is a paucity of similar data in children and adolescents. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether administration of a high dose of organic Se (200 μg daily as l-selenomethionine) has an effect on antithyroid antibody titres in children and adolescents with AT. METHODS: Seventy-one (71) children and adolescents, with a mean age of 11.3 ± 0.3 years (range 4.5-17.8), diagnosed with AT (antibodies against thyroid peroxidase [anti-TPO] and/or thyroglobulin [anti-Tg] ≥60 IU/mL, euthyroidism or treated hypothyroidism and goitre in thyroid gland ultrasonography) were randomized to receive 200 μg l-selenomethionine or placebo daily for 6 months. Blood samples were drawn for measurement of serum fT4, TSH, anti-TPO and anti-Tg levels, and thyroid gland ultrasonography was performed at the entry to the study and after 6 months of treatment. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: At the end of the study, a statistically significantly higher reduction in anti-Tg levels was observed in the Se group compared to the placebo group (Δ: -70.9 ± 22.1 vs -6.7 ± 60.6 IU/mL, P = 0.021). Although anti-TPO levels were also decreased in the Se group, this change was not statistically different from that of the control group (Δ: -116.2 ± 68.4 vs +262.8 ± 255.5 IU/mL, P = 0.219). No significant difference in thyroid gland volume was observed between the two study groups (P > 0.05). WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION: In this original study, organic Se supplementation appears to reduce anti-Tg levels in children and adolescents with AT. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Selenium (Se) compounds have demonstrated anticancer properties in both preclinical and clinical studies, with particular promise in combination therapy where the optimal form and dose of selenium has yet to be established. In a phase I randomised double-blinded study, the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of sodium selenite (SS), Se-methylselenocysteine (MSC) and seleno-l-methionine (SLM) were compared in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and a cohort of patients with solid malignancies. Twenty-four patients received 400 μg of elemental Se as either SS, MSC or SLM for 8 weeks. None of the Se compounds were associated with any significant toxicities, and the total plasma Se AUC of SLM was markedly raised in comparison to MSC and SS. DNA damage assessment revealed negligible genotoxicity, and some minor reductions in lymphocyte counts were observed. At the dose level used, all three Se compounds are well-tolerated and non-genotoxic. Further analyses of the pharmacodynamic effects of Se on healthy and malignant peripheral blood mononuclear cells will inform the future evaluation of higher doses of these Se compounds. The study is registered under the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry No: ACTRN12613000118707.

BACKGROUND: Selenium (Se) is a vital trace element affecting muscle development and quality. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of sodium selenite (SeNa), selenomethionine (SeMet), and elemental nano-selenium (SeNPs) on growth performance and meat quality and the underlying mechanisms in finishing pigs. METHODS: Finishing pigs (120 pigs/group) were fed with a basal diet [control group (CON), 0.108 mg Se/kg] or CON supplemented with 0.4 mg Se/kg SeNa, SeMet, or SeNPs. At week 6, the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle was collected for meat quality, Se, redox status, metabolomics, and transcriptomics analysis. RESULTS: Compared with the CON, the 3 forms of Se supplementation increased (P < 0.05) body weight gain (1.84%-6.07%) and reduced (P < 0.05) the feed/gain ratio (2.72%-4.89%) of pigs. Feed intake (0.97%) increased (P < 0.05) in the SeNPs group, but no significant change was observed in the SeNa and SeMet groups. SeNPs further improved (P < 0.05) these performances by 1.65%-4.16% compared with SeNa. Moreover, SeNPs and SeMet enhanced (P < 0.05) Se concentration, marbling, and color, but decreased (P < 0.05) drip loss in the LD muscle compared with those of CON and SeNa. Notably, SeNPs uniquely stabilized postmortem pH45 min and pH24 h and minimized drip loss compared with the other 3 groups. In addition, SeMet and (or) SeNPs increased (P < 0.05) triglyceride contents and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase in LD muscle. Metabolomic and transcriptomic profiling showed that SeNPs reduced lipid metabolism-related pathways and were associated with coordinated regulation of muscle and adipose tissue development. Multiomics integration further identified the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway as a central regulatory network targeted by SeNPs, thereby contributing to improvements in growth performance and meat quality in finishing pigs. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with SeNa or SeMet, SeNPs demonstrated a unique ability to improve growth performance, meat quality, and antioxidant status in finishing pigs, associated with regulating energy metabolism by activating the AMPK-

This review article provides an overview of selenium speciation using chromatographic and atomic techniques, based on a survey of relevant studies published in the 21st century. Selenium is an essential element, but the narrow range between deficiency and toxicity makes determining its various chemical forms in many samples fundamental. The total selenium content is insufficient to understand its behavior, as its various species exhibit distinct physicochemical and toxicological properties. In general, organic forms, such as selenomethionine (SeMet) and methylselenocysteine (MeSeCys), are less toxic and more bioavailable than inorganic species and are also associated with beneficial health effects, such as antioxidant activity and potential disease-prevention benefits. Therefore, selenium speciation analysis in various matrices is fundamental to understanding its toxicity, bioavailability, biotransformation, and bioaccumulation, since different chemical species exhibit distinct biological behaviors. Strategies combining chromatographic and atomic detection techniques have been explored for selenium speciation, leveraging separation resolution and detection sensitivity to achieve selective methods with low detection limits and applicability to complex matrices. The most used techniques for speciation include high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC), typically coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) or other atomic detectors, such as atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and atomic fluorescence spectroscopy (AFS). In addition to reviewing the literature on chromatography-atomic techniques combinations, sample preparation, separation methods, and detectors were discussed. Applications in food, biological, and environmental samples are presented, highlighting the importance of speciation for evaluating selenium toxicity and bioavailability. This review indicates that significant challenges remain due to low analyte concentrations, the risk of interconversion between species, and the emergence of new demands, such as analyzing complex matrices of food, supplements, and biological samples. This shows that Se spe

Current research lacks established approaches to concurrently achieve a high extraction yield with preserved bioactivity and to synergistically enhance plant selenium content and protein quality through agronomic practices. This study tested whether alkaline extraction maximizes selenoprotein yield without compromising antioxidant activity and whether foliar selenium application increases both fruit selenium content and the antioxidant capacity of extracted proteins. The fruits of the selenium-hyperaccumulator plant Cynanchum thesioides and its variant were utilized as experimental materials to systematically explore the differences in nutritional components and selenium (Se) content among various fruit types. The extraction conditions for Se-containing proteins using five distinct strategies were optimized via Response Surface Methodology (RSM), focusing on the extraction mechanism of alkaline extraction and the in vitro antioxidant activities of the derived Se-containing proteins. The findings revealed that the large fruits of the variant contained the highest selenium content (1.06 ± 0.02 mg/kg, n = 3). Under the optimal alkaline extraction conditions (solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:22.7, temperature of 44.62 °C, and NaOH concentration of 0.243 mol/L), the extraction yield of Se-containing proteins was 5.9 3 ± 0.15 mg/g (n = 3), significantly higher than those obtained by other methods (P < 0.05). Foliar application of selenomethionine (2 mg/L) significantly enhanced the selenium accumulation in the fruits to 1.92 ± 0.11 mg/kg (n = 3) and improved the antioxidant efficacy of the alkaline -extracted proteins. At a concentration of 5 mg/mL, the extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, with scavenging rates of 53.74% for superoxide anion (O2⋅-), 68.73% for hydroxyl radical (⋅OH), and 62.58% for DPPH radical (DPPH⋅), along with a ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) value of 1.33 ± 0.05 AU. This study offers a theoretical foundation and application prospects for the development of C. thesioides Se-containing proteins as antioxidant dietary components or functional food ingredients, encapsulating both extraction mechanisms and the functional activities.

Selenium (Se), an essential trace element, plays a significant role in human health. This study aimed to explain the biological effects of selenite (SeO32−) and selenomethionine (SeMet), two Se forms commonly used as dietary supplements, in processes involving nitric oxide (NO) release. We found that products formed by the interaction of SeO32− or SeMet with excess glutathione (GSH), cysteine or homocysteine, catalytically release NO from S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) in vitro at physiologically relevant SeO32−concentrations observed in blood. Administration of GSNO into the jugular vein of hypertensive rats decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), heart rate, and augmentation index. However, these effects were markedly attenuated when GSNO was pre-incubation with the GSH/SeO32− mixture prior to administration. Furthermore, SeO32− combined with cysteine, homocysteine, GSH and N-acetylcysteine did not induce plasmid DNA (pDNA) cleavage in vitro. However, the presence of GSNO in the SeO32−/thiol mixture caused pDNA cleavage in a bell-shaped manner depending on GSNO concentration. We suggest that under suitable biological conditions thiol/Se-derivatives release NO from NO-donors, but part of the released NO subsequently interacts with the interaction products, resulting in decreased NO bioavaibility in situ. These thiol/SeO32– interactions with NO-donors affect NO-dependent vascular activity and DNA stability. In conclusion, the observed effects may explain selenium’s dual roles in cardiovascular regulation and cancer prevention. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12011-026-05105-6.

Oxidative stress contributes to reproductive disorders, immune dysfunction, and reduced productivity in livestock during periods of high metabolic demand and environmental challenge. Selenium supports antioxidant defense systems because it is incorporated as selenocysteine into selenoproteins, including glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases that detoxify peroxides and sustain redox balance. The review summarizes selenium occurrence and chemical forms in feeds, as well as its absorption, transportation, and storage. The review also outlines the major features of selenoprotein biosynthesis and its prioritized allocation, with an emphasis on cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats. Evidence from multiple sources indicates that selenium status and supplementation interacts with antioxidant capacity, immune competence, thyroid hormone metabolism, reproductive performance, and the transfer of selenium to milk and offspring. In ruminants, rumen microbial transformations can reduce the bioavailability of inorganic selenium salts, and organic sources, such as selenium-enriched yeast, hydroxy-selenomethionine, and selenitetriglycerides, often increase blood and milk selenium more effectively. In pigs, organic selenium is commonly associated with enhanced antioxidant and immune indices in sows and piglets during late gestation, lactation, and weaning, whereas effects on growth performance are inconsistent. The review emphasizes the narrow margin between adequacy and excess and outlines practical considerations for supplementation and monitoring, alongside research needs for emerging selenium forms and functional biomarkers.

Sarcopenic obesity (SO), characterized by concurrent muscle loss and excessive adiposity, lacks effective interventions. This study investigated the enhanced effects of the selenomethionine (Se-Met) and magnolol (Mag) combination against SO using an integrated computational-experimental approach. Network pharmacology and molecular docking predicted peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 - glutathione peroxidase 4 (Nrf2 - GPX4) axis as core targets, which was corroborated by single-cell transcriptomic data analysis showing their co-expression in muscle progenitor cells. In high-fat diet ‌(HFD)-fed mice, the combined Se-Met and Mag treatment ameliorated metabolic dysregulation, reduced intramuscular lipid deposition, and improved muscle function more effectively than monotherapies. In C2C12 myotubes, the combination co-activated PPARγ to enhance lipid clearance and potentiated the Nrf2-GPX4 antioxidant axis. Notably, it modulated ferroptosis-related signaling by downregulating acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) and upregulating ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), an effect abolished by Nrf2 inhibition. Pharmacological inhibition of either PPARγ or Nrf2 reversed the protective benefits. Our findings reveal that Se-Met and Mag in combination target PPARγ and Nrf2-GPX4 pathways while regulating ferroptosis-related signaling to alleviate ferroptosis-associated markers, with phenotypic characteristics consistent with ferroptosis inhibition, thereby offering a novel nutraceutical strategy for SO.

Although selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) can mitigate cadmium (Cd) accumulation in crops, comparative system-level mechanisms among different SeNPs remain unclear, particularly in wheat. Herein, we compare chemically and biologically synthesized SeNPs (CH/BI-SeNPs) to elucidate Cd detoxification via phyllosphere metabolism-microbiome interactions. Results showed that foliar application of both SeNPs significantly reduced Cd accumulation and mitigated cell membrane damage in wheat. CH-SeNPs exhibited the strongest Cd reduction effect, decreasing grain Cd content by 30.9%. Metabolomic profiling revealed a substantial reorganization of sulfur metabolic pathways under CH-SeNPs treatment, characterized by the accumulation of S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), decreased homomethionine, and reduced oxidized glutathione (GSSG), indicating a shift in sulfur flux toward enhanced synthesis of reduced thiol compounds. CH-SeNPs activated the glutathione biosynthesis pathway, significantly increasing the activity of γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase and the contents of cysteine and glutathione, thereby promoting Cd chelation, and reducing its translocation to grains. 16S rRNA sequencing further demonstrated that CH-SeNPs significantly enriched Sphingomonas, a genus involved in sulfur cycling, in the phyllosphere, rhizosphere, and rhizosphere soil, suggesting that microbial interactions facilitated sulfur metabolism and contributed to a systemic reduction in Cd bioavailability. Additionally, HPLC-ICP-MS analysis indicated an increased proportion of selenomethionine in grains under CH-SeNPs treatment, enhancing both nutritional value and food safety. This study reveals that SeNPs alleviate Cd stress in wheat via coordinated regulation involving phyllosphere sulfur metabolism and microbial interactions related to sulfur, providing a mechanistic basis for the application of SeNPs in the remediation of heavy metal contamination and nutritional fortification in agriculture.

BACKGROUND: Cadmium (Cd), a widespread environmental pollutant, poses significant risks to human health due to its high bioaccumulation potential and prolonged biological half-life. Selenium (Se) has been reported to exert protective effects against Cd-induced organ toxicity; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms, particularly those associated with lipid metabolism and inflammatory regulation, remain insufficiently elucidated. METHODS: The hepatoprotective effects of Se, administered as selenomethionine (SeMet) and Se-enriched Cardamine enshiensis extract (CE), were investigated against Cd-induced hepatic injury using both in vitro (L-02 hepatocytes) and in vivo (C57BL/6J mice) models. RESULTS: SeMet significantly attenuated Cd-induced cytotoxicity, lipid accumulation, and metabolic dysregulation in L-02 cells. In Cd-exposed mice, treatment with SeMet or CE significantly mitigated hepatic injury, steatosis, and inflammation, as evidenced by normalized serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels, improved hepatic histoarchitecture, and reduced lipid droplet deposition. Integrated lipidomic and transcriptomic analyses demonstrated that Se supplementation restored Cd-perturbed polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism, downregulated lipogenic genes (SCD1, Pparγ, Fasn), and suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators (Cxcl2, Ccl2). CONCLUSION: Se confers hepatoprotection against Cd toxicity not only through its classical antioxidant activity but also through coordinated modulation of lipid metabolic pathways and inflammatory signaling. This study provides mechanistic insights into Se-mediated defense against Cd-induced hepatotoxicity and highlights the therapeutic potential of Se-enriched phytochemicals for mitigating the adverse effects of environmental Cd exposure. © Copyright: © 2026 The Author(s). Published by IMR Press.

Selenium (Se) enrichment in yeast represents a promising strategy for producing organic Se with high bioavailability. However, a systematic understanding of how Se incorporation alters intact protein structure and function across diverse strains remains lacking. This study investigated four yeast species (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Kluyveromyces marxianus, Kluyveromyces lactis, and Torulaspora delbrueckii) using multi-spectroscopic and radical scavenging assays. Despite moderate growth inhibition (10.4-27.7%), all strains accumulated substantial Se (1164-2858 µg/g). Structural analysis revealed that Se induced strain-dependent protein conformational perturbations. Specifically, in selenium-enriched Saccharomyces cerevisiae, where Se was predominantly incorporated as selenomethionine (SeMet, 85.80%), a significant structural relaxation occurred. This was characterized by decreased rigid β-sheet content, increased flexible random coils, and a substantial enhancement in surface hydrophobicity. Crucially, Pearson correlation analysis revealed that functional enhancements were synergistically governed by specific Se speciation and secondary structural remodeling. Enhanced DPPH• scavenging activity was positively correlated with changes in β-sheet and random coil structures. Selenomethionine content was also significantly correlated with increased scavenging of •OH and ABTS•+. Consequently, Saccharomyces cerevisiae uniquely achieved highly significant (p < 0.001) antioxidant improvements, whereas other strains showed moderate or non-significant responses despite high Se yields. Our findings demonstrate that the antioxidant efficacy of selenoproteins is not solely determined by total Se content but is fundamentally driven by the targeted bioconversion of SeMet and its associated structural relaxation.

Sodium arsenite (NaAsO₂) contamination in food and water poses a significant threat to human health, with its reproductive toxicity requiring further investigation. Selenium (Se), an essential trace element, has been shown to combat oxidative damage, enhance immunity, and mitigate the toxicity of heavy metals. This study examined the ameliorative effect of organic selenomethionine (Se-Met) against AsIII-induced reproductive toxicity in zebrafish. Zebrafish were exposed to 300 μg/L AsIII and fed a diet supplemented with Se-Met (1 μg/g) either prophylactically or therapeutically. Behavioral analysis revealed that AsIII exposure disrupted courtship behavior and reduced spawning, whereas Se-Met treatment partially restored normal spawning activity. Histological examination showed decreased sperm counts in AsIII-exposed males, which were ameliorated restored by Se-Met. At the molecular level, AsIII exposure down regulated Cyp11a, Cyp17a and Cyp19a1b in gonads, as well as Fshβ and Cyp19a1a in the brain, while Se-Met supplementation partially reversed these effects. In addition, CYP17A1 protein expression in spermatogonia was markedly reduced by AsIII but showed a clear recovery tendency following Se-Met treatment. In conclusion, low-dose Se-Met supplementation partially alleviates AsIII-induced reproductive toxicity in zebrafish, supporting its potential role as a partially ameliorative agent against sodium arsenite exposure.

Selenium is an essential dietary micronutrient, exerting beneficial effects over a limited range of concentrations. Insufficient dietary intake of selenium increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, infertility, immune dysfunction, prostate cancer, cognitive decline, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer in females, skeletal muscle disorders, overall mortality and an endemic cardiomyopathy known as Keshan disease. Excessive intake of selenium is toxic, leading to a condition termed selenosis, that is associated with damage to the nails, dermatitis, alopecia, central nervous system dysfunction and death. Selenium exerts its biological effects through low-molecular weight molecules, through a small family of selenoproteins which contain the 21st amino acid selenocysteine, and via selenium-binding proteins, in which an atom of selenium is covalently bound to a cysteine residue. In addition to being regulated by body selenium status, the abundance and function of these biomolecules can be controlled by other dietary components (including copper, zinc, folic acid, resveratrol, vitamin A and α-linoleic acid) and other factors, such as exercise and caloric restriction. This review comprehensively surveys the effects of selenium-containing biomolecules on aging and aims to generate rationales underpinning the biphasic effects of this element on life-span, health-span and disease. This will provide a framework for understanding the effects of selenium on mechanisms of aging, as the starting point for development of interventions that will promote longevity and health-span.

Colonization of commensal fungi, particularly Malassezia, and immune-cell recruitment, are two essential drivers initiating processes in dermatitis, which necessitates interventions to prevent skin barrier damage and immune hyperactivation. Herein, we construct theabrownin-selenium nanoparticles (TB-Se NPs) as a dual-function antifungal and immunomodulatory platform with pronounced hair-follicle penetration for counteracting Malassezia-induced dermatitis and recurrence. TB-Se NPs are stabilized by conjugated biomacromolecules from tea-derived polymer TB, yielding reduced size and enhanced stability. Mechanistically, covalent O═C─O bonding between TB-Se NPs and cell walls boosts surface adsorption sixfold compared to bare Se NPs. This interaction disrupts fungal envelope integrity and facilitates a "Trojan Horse" effect, promoting the release of selenols via thiol exchange and interfering with sulfur-related metabolism to induce fungal death. In a Malassezia-induced dermatitis model, follicle-targeted TB-Se NPs suppressed dermatitis phenotypes by restraint on fungal overgrowth and prevention of abnormal keratinocyte proliferation. TB-Se NPs also interfered with neutrophil adhesion and migration capacities and local amplification of the inflammatory response. A Long-term firewall against fungi recurrence has been established by TB-Se NPs, which pre-activate CD4+ T cells and memory T cells to strengthen the immune memory response. Collectively, TB-Se NPs represent a dual-function antifungal and immunomodul

BACKGROUND: Selenium is an essential trace element widely used in health supplements. Reported cases of selenium poisoning have mainly involved hair loss, nail changes, and liver dysfunction, whereas toxic encephalopathy is uncommon. To date, no cases of selenium poisoning causing vision or hearing loss have been reported. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a 27-year-old woman employed in health supplement research and development who was occupationally exposed to multiple selenium compounds. During product testing in April 2025, she ingested selenium-containing samples. Based on the product formulation and the recorded amount sampled, the estimated oral selenium intake was 40.146 mg; however, this value represents an exposure estimate rather than a directly measured absorbed dose. She subsequently developed multisystem toxicity, including toxic encephalopathy, bilateral vision loss, hearing loss, liver dysfunction, alopecia, nail changes, and radial bone marrow edema. Initial symptoms were nausea and vomiting, followed by hearing loss, impaired consciousness, vision loss, and liver dysfunction. The first post-exposure blood selenium concentration was 13,131.8 ng/mL, and the urinary selenium concentration was 20,756.1 ng/mL. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: Treatment included sedation, diuretics, corticosteroids, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, organ protection, neurotrophic support, anti-infective therapy, and nutritional support. Consciousness recovered within 2 weeks, and liver function normalized. Vision transiently improved but later worsened. At 35-week follow-up, the right eye had no light perception, the left eye had visual acuity of 20 cm, and hearing loss had progressed to complete deafness. CONCLUSION: Extremely high-dose selenium ingestion can cause toxic encephalopathy and previously unr

Diabetic wounds, particularly combined with pressure ulcers, pose significant therapeutic challenges due to their complex pathophysiology. Conventional treatment strategies often fail to adequately address the multifactorial impairment of healing in these conditions. Here, we proposed and investigated a combinatory strategy employing human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (hADSC-Exos) with near-infrared-II (NIR-II)-responsive selenium telluride (TeSe) nanoparticle-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT). A full-thickness skin defect pressure ulcer model in diabetic mice was established to systematically evaluate different exosome administration regimens (single high-dose vs. multiple low-dose injections) and their combination effect with TeSe nanoparticle and NIR-II irradiation. We find that multiple low-dose subepidermal injections of hADSC-Exos resulted in more pronounced healing compared to a single high-dose strategy. The combination of low-dose exosomes with TeSe+NIR-II PTT markedly enhanced wound closure quality and stimulated hair follicle regeneration within 21 days. In vitro, TeSe nanoparticles demonstrated effective NIR-II photothermal conversion and antibacterial activity. Their integration with exosomes significantly boosted fibroblast migration and proliferation. Histological analysis confirmed that the combined therapy potently promoted angiogenesis (inc

BACKGROUND: Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) has a severe impact on physical and mental well-being. The aim of this study is to assess factors associated with the severity of FPHL. METHODS: This retrospective study included 289 patients with FPHL (150 classified as F1 and 139 as F2/3). Thirteen elements were determined using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry method. Univariate and multivariate analyses, propensity score-matched (PSM) models, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were applied to investigate associations and dose-response relationships between elements, vitamins, hormones and FPHL severity RESULTS: Patients in the F2/3 group were significantly older than those in the F1 group (P = 0.002) and had a longer duration of FPHL (P < 0.001). Serum levels of selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), vitamin B9, and testosterone were significantly lower in the F2/3 group compared with the F1 group (all P < 0.05). However, multivariate

INTRODUCTION: The Ganxi goat, a native Chinese breed inhabiting the hot and humid regions of western Jiangxi Province, displays notable adaptability to local climatic stress. This study aimed to investigate the morphological structure, hair follicle cycling pattern, and GSDMA protein expression in the skin of Ganxi goats, to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying their environmental adaptation. METHODS: Using histological (H&E, Sacpic, and melanin staining), immunohistochemical (Ki67 and GSDMA), and Western blotting techniques, we conducted a year-long analysis of skin samples from ten 6-month-old female Ganxi goats. RESULTS: Results showed that total skin thickness ranged from 1,118 to 2088 μm, and epidermal thickness from 12 to 28 μm, with regional variation. Primary hair follicle depth averaged 1,056 μm. Hair follicle groups exhibited a typical trimeric structure, but were looser than in other goat breeds, with less-developed connective tissue sheaths, wider inter-follicular spaces, and well-developed sweat glands. Melanin was mainly localized in hair bulbs and outer root sheaths. Ki67-positive cells were concentrated in hair matrix regions. These structural features suggest that Ganxi goat skin is morphologically adapted to hot and humid environments. The secondary hair follicle cycle was divided

INTRODUCTION: We report acute alopecia linked to selenium-contaminated wheat in rural Maharashtra, India. After local media reported sudden hair loss in 18 villages, we investigated two villages - Machindrakhed and Bhondgaon. Five individuals were evaluated. CASE SERIES: The wheat samples distributed through the Public Distribution System were analyzed and had selenium concentrations of 13.6-14.7 mg/kg (normal: 0.1-1.9 mg/kg). All five patients had consumed Public Distribution System wheat. Symptoms began within 48 h and included vomiting, diarrhea, and fever on the 4th day, followed by scalp tingling, itching, severe hair loss, and dystrophic finger- and toenails. Hair regrew within 5-6 weeks after cessation of wheat consumption. Elevated selenium concentrations were noted in the urine (n = 5) and blood (n = 3), but other metals were not detected. Washing selenium-contaminated wheat with alkaline water reduced selenium concentrations. DISCUSSION: Because selenium dissolves more readily in alkaline soils, we determined that alkaline washing significantly reduced selenium concentrations in contaminated wheat and may represent a low-cost, household-level mitigation strategy. CONCLUSIONS: Selenium poisoning occurred in 18 villages in the Buldhana district in India due to contaminated wheat distributed by the Public Distribution System.

Seed germination is recognized for enhancing the accumulation of bioactive compounds. Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt., commonly known as perilla seed, is rich in fatty acids that may be beneficial for anti-hair loss. This study investigated the hair regeneration potential of perilla seed extracts-non-germinated (NG-PS) and germinated in distilled water (0 ppm selenium; G0-PS), and germinated with 80 ppm selenium (G80-PS)-obtained from supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and screw compression (SC). SFE extracts exhibited significantly higher levels of polyphenols, tocopherols, and fatty acids compared to SC extracts. Among the germinated gro

The rise of fad diets and unregulated supplement use, amplified by social media and aggressive marketing, has dramatically shifted public attitudes toward nutrition and health. This new landscape is associated with a growing spectrum of dermatologic presentations, as the skin frequently serves as an early indicator of both nutritional deficiencies and toxicities. Popular dietary trends, such as ketogenic, carnivore, and raw vegan regimens, have been linked to cutaneous disorders, including prurigo pigmentosa, scurvy-like eruptions, hair loss, xerosis, and pigmentary changes. In parallel, the overuse of supplements like niacin, selenium, and zinc is increasingly implicated in cases of dermatologic toxicity, presenting as flushing, dermatitis, alopecia, and nail dystrophy. Fitness-oriented supplements, particularly whey protein, are now recognized contributors to acne flares, likely via insulin and IGF-1 pathways. Given the high prevalence of health misinformation online and the lack of regulation surrounding dietary supplements, dermatologists and allied clinicians must prioritize thorough dietary and supplement histories, recognize the skin's role as an early warning system for nutritional imbalance, and provide evidence-based patient counseling. A multidisciplinary approach that integrates clinical vigilance, interdisciplinary education, and public health advocacy will be crucial for reducing the burden of nutrition-related skin disease and promoting safe, effective dietary practices. The clinical recognition of these diet- and supplement-induced dermatoses is complicated by their overlap with more common inflammatory or autoimmune skin diseases, often leading to misdiagnosis and delayed management of the underlying nutritional etiology.

The skin, the body's largest organ, functions as both a protective shield and a complex sensory interface with the external environment. Its structural integrity and physiological functions are influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors, often manifesting as wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation changes. Among the crucial determinants of skin health are trace elements, particularly zinc, copper, iron, selenium, manganese, and silicon, which are vital for maintaining skin homeostasis, suppo

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the levels of ischaemia-modified albumin, an oxidative stress marker, and antioxidant vitamins and minerals in patients with Alopecia Areata (AA) to measure total antioxidant and oxidant capacity and to determine whether the obtained values were related to the severity of the disease. METHODS: This prospective, controlled study has enrolled 30 patients admitted to our institution's outpatient clinic with a clinical or histopathological diagnosis of AA and 30 individuals as the control group. Serum ischaemia-modified albumin, vitamin E, selenium, copper, zinc, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidant capacity (TOC) levels of the individuals included in the study were evaluated, and their relationship with the severity of the disease was determined. RESULTS: Ischaemia-modified albumin level was significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p = 0.002), and vitamin E level was significantly lower in the patient group compared to the control group (p = 0.017). Ischaemia-modified albumin levels were significantly higher in patients with severe disease than in those with mild disease (p = 0.027), while Zn was significantly lower (p = 0.014). No significant difference was found between Se, Cu, Zn, TAC, and TOC levels in the patient and control groups. No significant difference was found between the disease severity and vitamin E, Se, Cu, TAC, and TOC levels. CONCLUSION: In our study, the high ischaemia-modified albumin and low vitamin E levels in AA patients indicate that the oxidant-antioxidant balance in AA patients

Skin is the human body's largest organ, protecting it from various environmental threats. At the same time, it is the most accessible organ of the body, which ensures the reception of stimuli and contact with the environment. Such common signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and discoloration, result from both extrinsic and intrinsic factors that act for a long time. If the skin does not look well enough, it is worth investigating whether minerals or trace elements are deficient. The positive role of some minerals (calcium, potassium, sodium, sulfur, and magnesium) and trace elements (iron, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, and silicon) was found in maintaining skin health. There are also a variety of skin conditions, such as inflammatory disorders (eczema, psoriasis), acne, lichen planus, vitiligo, alopecia areata, or even skin cancer, which require specif