Nutrients

Research

9 pages, 540 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

How Does Selenium Intake Differ among Children (1–3 Years) on Vegetarian, Vegan, and Omnivorous Diets? Results of the VeChi Diet Study

by Stine Weder, Esther H. Zerback, Sina M. Wagener, Christian Koeder, Morwenna Fischer, Ute Alexy and Markus Keller

Nutrients 2023, 15(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15010034 - 21 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3870

Abstract

In regions with low selenium soil concentrations, selenium can be considered a critical nutrient for vegetarians and vegans. While the number of vegetarians and vegans is increasing in many countries, a large research gap remains in this field. For example, to date, no [...] Read more.

In regions with low selenium soil concentrations, selenium can be considered a critical nutrient for vegetarians and vegans. While the number of vegetarians and vegans is increasing in many countries, a large research gap remains in this field. For example, to date, no study seems to have assessed selenium intake in vegetarian and vegan children. Therefore, the selenium intake of 1- to 3-year-old vegetarian, vegan, and omnivorous children who participated in the cross-sectional VeChi Diet study was determined. Selenium intake was assessed based on 3-day food diaries (not including supplements) and food selenium concentrations provided by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Between-group differences were assessed with analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The median daily selenium intake was 17 µg, 19 µg, and 22 µg in vegetarian, vegan, and omnivorous children, respectively. However, only the difference between the vegan and omnivorous children was statistically significant. On average, all three groups met the harmonized average requirement (H-AR) for selenium of 17 µg/day. Nevertheless, the hypothesis that vegetarian and vegan children generally consume less selenium than omnivorous children could be confirmed, and 39% of vegetarians, 36% of vegans, and 16% of omnivores fell below the adequate intake for selenium (provided by EFSA) of 15 µg/day. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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10 pages, 1452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Sectional Association of Blood Selenium with Glycemic Biomarkers among U.S. Adults with Normoglycemia in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2016

by Jingli Yang, En Chen, Cheukling Choi, Kayue Chan, Qinghua Yang, Juwel Rana, Bo Yang, Chuiguo Huang, Aimin Yang and Kenneth Lo

Nutrients 2022, 14(19), 3972; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14193972 - 24 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2285

Abstract

Selenium (Se) remains to have an inconsistent relationship with glycemic biomarkers and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Few studies have investigated the relationship between blood Se and glycemic biomarkers among people with normoglycemia. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using the [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) remains to have an inconsistent relationship with glycemic biomarkers and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D). Few studies have investigated the relationship between blood Se and glycemic biomarkers among people with normoglycemia. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2016. Multivariable linear regression models were developed to examine the associations of blood Se with glycemic biomarkers, namely, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), insulin, and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Blood Se was treated as continuous (per log-10 increment) and categorical exposure (in quartiles) in separate regression models. We assessed the dose–response relationships by restricted cubic spline analysis. After excluding the participants with T2D or incomplete data, 2706 participants were analyzed. The highest quartile of blood Se was associated with increased FPG [adjusted β = 0.12, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) = 0.04, 0.20], OGTT (adjusted β = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.02, 0.56), HbA1c (adjusted β = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.00, 0.07), and insulin (adjusted β = 2.50, 95% CI = 1.05, 3.95) compared with the lowest quartile. Positive associations were also observed between every log-10 increment of blood Se level and glycemic biomarkers, except for OGTT. A positive linear dose–response relationship existed between blood Se and FPG (P_overall = 0.003, P_nonlinear = 0.073) and insulin (P_overall = 0.004, P_nonlinear =0.060). BMI, age, and smoking status modified the associations of the highest quartile of Se (compared with the lowest quartile) with glycemic biomarkers. Overall, positive associations of blood Se with glycemic biomarkers were observed among U.S. adults with normoglycemia. These findings implied that people with normoglycemia need to be aware of the level of Se and other mineral intakes from diet and supplements. Further research is required to identify the mechanisms of excess Se in the progression of diabetes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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16 pages, 3031 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Methionine Status Influence the Outcome of Selenomethinione Supplementation? A Comparative Study of Metabolic and Selenium Levels in HepG2 Cells

by Yili Hu, Xiaocui Chai, Jun Men, Shen Rao, Xin Cong, Shuiyuan Cheng and Zhixian Qiao

Nutrients 2022, 14(18), 3705; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14183705 - 8 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2409

Abstract

Methionine restriction and selenium supplementation are recommended because of their health benefits. As a major nutrient form in selenium supplementation, selenomethionine shares a similar biological process to its analog methionine. However, the outcome of selenomethionine supplementation under different methionine statuses and the interplay [...] Read more.

Methionine restriction and selenium supplementation are recommended because of their health benefits. As a major nutrient form in selenium supplementation, selenomethionine shares a similar biological process to its analog methionine. However, the outcome of selenomethionine supplementation under different methionine statuses and the interplay between these two nutrients remain unclear. Therefore, this study explored the metabolic effects and selenium utilization in HepG2 cells supplemented with selenomethionine under deprived, adequate, and abundant methionine supply conditions by using nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomic and molecular biological approaches. Results revealed that selenomethionine promoted the proliferation of HepG2 cells, the transcription of selenoproteins, and the production of most amino acids while decreasing the levels of creatine, aspartate, and nucleoside diphosphate sugar regardless of methionine supply. Selenomethionine substantially disturbed the tricarboxylic acid cycle and choline metabolism in cells under a methionine shortage. With increasing methionine supply, the metabolic disturbance was alleviated, except for changes in lactate, glycine, citrate, and hypoxanthine. The markable selenium accumulation and choline decrease in the cells under methionine shortage imply the potential risk of selenomethionine supplementation. This work revealed the biological effects of selenomethionine under different methionine supply conditions. This study may serve as a guide for controlling methionine and selenomethionine levels in dietary intake. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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19 pages, 9528 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selenium Prevents Inflammation in Human Placenta and Adipose Tissue In Vitro: Implications for Metabolic Diseases of Pregnancy Associated with Inflammation

by Caitlyn Nguyen-Ngo, Anthony V. Perkins and Martha Lappas

Nutrients 2022, 14(16), 3286; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163286 - 11 Aug 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2477

Abstract

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and maternal obesity are significant metabolic complications increasingly prevalent in pregnancy. Of major concern, both GDM and maternal obesity can have long-term detrimental impacts on the health of both mother and offspring. Recent research has shown that increased inflammation [...] Read more.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and maternal obesity are significant metabolic complications increasingly prevalent in pregnancy. Of major concern, both GDM and maternal obesity can have long-term detrimental impacts on the health of both mother and offspring. Recent research has shown that increased inflammation and oxidative stress are two features central to the pathophysiology of these metabolic conditions. Evidence suggests selenium supplementation may be linked to disease prevention in pregnancy; however, the specific effects of selenium on inflammation and oxidative stress associated with GDM and maternal obesity are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of selenium supplementation on an in vitro model of GDM and maternal obesity. Human placental tissue, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) were stimulated with either the bacterial product lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. Selenium pre-treatment blocked LPS and TNF-α induced mRNA expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine and antioxidant mRNA expression in placenta, VAT and SAT. Selenium pre-treatment was also found to inhibit LPS- and TNF-α induced phosphorylation of ERK in placenta, VAT and SAT. These findings indicate that selenium may be able to prevent inflammation and oxidative stress associated with GDM and maternal obesity. Additional in vivo studies are required to identify the efficacy of selenium supplementation in preventing inflammatory pathways activated by GDM and maternal obesity and to elucidate the mechanism involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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20 pages, 4602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selenium Yeast and Fish Oil Combination Diminishes Cancer Stem Cell Traits and Reverses Cisplatin Resistance in A549 Sphere Cells

by I-Chun Lai, Chien-Huang Liao, Ming-Hung Hu, Chia-Lun Chang, Gi-Ming Lai, Tzeon-Jye Chiou, Simon Hsia, Wei-Lun Tsai, Yu-Yin Lin, Shuang-En Chuang, Jacqueline Whang-Peng, Hsuan-Yu Chen and Chih-Jung Yao

Nutrients 2022, 14(15), 3232; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153232 - 7 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2987

Abstract

Cisplatin is a prevalent chemotherapeutic agent used for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is difficult to treat by targeted therapy, but the emergence of resistance severely limits its efficacy. Thus, an effective strategy to combat cisplatin resistance is required. This study demonstrated [...] Read more.

Cisplatin is a prevalent chemotherapeutic agent used for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that is difficult to treat by targeted therapy, but the emergence of resistance severely limits its efficacy. Thus, an effective strategy to combat cisplatin resistance is required. This study demonstrated that, at clinically achievable concentrations, the combination of selenium yeast (Se-Y) and fish oil (FO) could synergistically induce the apoptosis of cancer stem cell (CSC)-like A549 NSCLC sphere cells, accompanied by a reversal of their resistance to cisplatin. Compared to parental A549 cells, sphere cells have higher cisplatin resistance and possess elevated CSC markers (CD133 and ABCG2), epithelial–mesenchymal transition markers (anexelekto (AXL), vimentin, and N-cadherin), and cytoprotective endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker (glucose-regulated protein 78) and increased oncogenic drivers, such as yes-associated protein, transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif, β-catenin, and cyclooxygenase-2. In contrast, the proapoptotic ER stress marker CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein homologous protein and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity were reduced in sphere cells. The Se-Y and FO combination synergistically counteracted the above molecular features of A549 sphere cells and diminished their elevated CSC-like side population. AMPK inhibition by compound C restored the side population proportion diminished by this nutrient combination. The results suggest that the Se-Y and FO combination can potentially improve the outcome of cisplatin-treated NSCLC with phenotypes such as A549 cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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14 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Associations of Selenoprotein Genetic Variants with the Risks of Colorectal Adenoma and Colorectal Cancer: Case–Control Studies in Irish and Czech Populations

by Maryam Mukhtar, Niall Ashfield, Ludmila Vodickova, Veronika Vymetalkova, Miroslav Levy, Václav Liska, Jan Bruha, Petra Bendova, Jacintha O’Sullivan, Glen Doherty, Kieran Sheahan, Blathnaid Nolan, Pavel Vodicka and David J. Hughes

Nutrients 2022, 14(13), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14132718 - 29 Jun 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2668

Abstract

Background: Selenium manifests its biological effects through its incorporation into selenoproteins, which play several roles in countering oxidative and inflammatory responses implicated in colorectal carcinogenesis. Selenoprotein genetic variants may contribute to colorectal cancer (CRC) development, as we previously observed for SNP variants in [...] Read more.

Background: Selenium manifests its biological effects through its incorporation into selenoproteins, which play several roles in countering oxidative and inflammatory responses implicated in colorectal carcinogenesis. Selenoprotein genetic variants may contribute to colorectal cancer (CRC) development, as we previously observed for SNP variants in a large European prospective study and a Czech case–control cohort. Methods: We tested if significantly associated selenoprotein gene SNPs from these studies were also associated with CRC risk in case–control studies from Ireland (colorectal neoplasia, i.e., cancer and adenoma cases: 450, controls: 461) and the Czech Republic (CRC cases: 718, controls: 646). Genotyping of 23 SNPs (20 in the Irish and 13 in the Czechs) was performed by competitive specific allele-specific PCR (KASPar). Multivariable adjusted logistic regression was used to assess the associations with CRC development. Results: We found significant associations with an increased CRC risk for rs5859 (SELENOF) and rs2972994 (SELENOP) in the Irish cohort but only with rs4802034 (SELENOV) in the Czechs. Significant associations were observed for rs5859 (SELENOF), rs4659382 (SELENON), rs2972994 (SELENOP), rs34713741 (SELENOS), and the related Se metabolism gene variant rs2275129 (SEPHS1) with advanced colorectal neoplasia development. However, none of these findings retained significance after multiple testing corrections. Conclusions: Several SNPs previously associated with CRC risk were also associated with CRC or colorectal neoplasia development in either the Irish or Czech cohorts. Selenoprotein gene variation may modify CRC risk across diverse European populations, although the specific variants may differ. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

11 pages, 487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Selenium Status and Chronic Kidney Disease in Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Based on CHNS Data

by Changxiao Xie, Mao Zeng, Zumin Shi, Shengping Li, Ke Jiang and Yong Zhao

Nutrients 2022, 14(13), 2695; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14132695 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3148

Abstract

Background: The association between selenium and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains controversial. Population studies with large samples facilitate the reliability of conclusions. Objective: In this study, we aimed to describe the prevalence of a CKD association with selenium intake in middle-aged and older [...] Read more.

Background: The association between selenium and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains controversial. Population studies with large samples facilitate the reliability of conclusions. Objective: In this study, we aimed to describe the prevalence of a CKD association with selenium intake in middle-aged and older Chinese. Methods: Data for this study were obtained from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). A total of 5381 participants (aged ≥ 45) with biochemical test data were included in the study. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between diet selenium intake (quartile) and the prevalence of CKD. Results: A total of 942 (17.01%) participants had CKD. The prevalence of CKD was 23.33%, 20.32%, 14.98%, and 9.25% among participants with average selenium intakes of 21.5 ± 4.82, 33.1 ± 2.79, 43.8 ± 3.70, and 67.0 ± 13.97 µg/day, respectively. In the fully adjusted model (Model 3), across the quartiles of selenium intake, the ORs for the prevalence of CKD were 1.00, 1.09 (95% CI 0.69–1.73), 0.82 (95% CI 0.49–1.38), and 0.43 (95% CI 0.22–0.85). The protein intake had a certain diagnostic significance for the selenium intake. Conclusions: An adequate selenium intake may have a positive effect on CKD. The influence of individual weight and location on the effect of selenium on CKD needs to be further explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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16 pages, 1982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Critical Role of Maternal Selenium Nutrition in Neurodevelopment: Effects on Offspring Behavior and Neuroinflammatory Profile

by Maria Antonietta Ajmone-Cat, Roberta De Simone, Anna Maria Tartaglione, Antonella Di Biase, Rita Di Benedetto, Massimo D’Archivio, Rosaria Varì, Laura Ricceri, Federica Aureli, Francesca Iacoponi, Andrea Raggi, Francesco Cubadda, Susan J. Fairweather-Tait, Gemma Calamandrei and Luisa Minghetti

Nutrients 2022, 14(9), 1850; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091850 - 28 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3043

Abstract

Research in both animals and humans shows that some nutrients are important in pregnancy and during the first years of life to support brain and cognitive development. Our aim was to evaluate the role of selenium (Se) in supporting brain and behavioral plasticity [...] Read more.

Research in both animals and humans shows that some nutrients are important in pregnancy and during the first years of life to support brain and cognitive development. Our aim was to evaluate the role of selenium (Se) in supporting brain and behavioral plasticity and maturation. Pregnant and lactating female rats and their offspring up to postnatal day 40 were fed isocaloric diets differing in Se content—i.e., optimal, sub-optimal, and deficient—and neurodevelopmental, neuroinflammatory, and anti-oxidant markers were analyzed. We observed early adverse behavioral changes in juvenile rats only in sub-optimal offspring. In addition, sub-optimal, more than deficient supply, reduced basal glial reactivity in sex dimorphic and brain-area specific fashion. In female offspring, deficient and sub-optimal diets reduced the antioxidant Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the cortex and in the liver, the latter being the key organ regulating Se metabolism and homeostasis. The finding that the Se sub-optimal was more detrimental than Se deficient diet may suggest that maternal Se deficient diet, leading to a lower Se supply at earlier stages of fetal development, stimulated homeostatic mechanisms in the offspring that were not initiated by sub-optimal Se. Our observations demonstrate that even moderate Se deficiency during early life negatively may affect, in a sex-specific manner, optimal brain development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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12 pages, 719 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selenium Deficiency during Pregnancy in Mice Impairs Exercise Performance and Metabolic Function in Adult Offspring

by Pierre Hofstee, Anthony V. Perkins and James S. M. Cuffe

Nutrients 2022, 14(5), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14051125 - 7 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2752

Abstract

Selenium deficiency during the perinatal period programs metabolic dysfunction in offspring. Postnatal exercise may prevent the development of programmed metabolic disease. This study investigated the impact of selenium deficiency on offspring exercise behavior and whether this improved metabolic health. Female C57BL/6 mice were [...] Read more.

Selenium deficiency during the perinatal period programs metabolic dysfunction in offspring. Postnatal exercise may prevent the development of programmed metabolic disease. This study investigated the impact of selenium deficiency on offspring exercise behavior and whether this improved metabolic health. Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly allocated to control (NormalSe, >190 μg/Se/kg, n = 8) or low-selenium (LowSe, <50 μg/Se/kg, n = 8) diets from four weeks before mating. Male offspring were weaned at postnatal day (PN) twenty-four and placed on a normal chow diet. At PN60, mice were placed in cages with bi-directional running wheels and monitored until PN180. LowSe offspring had a reduced average weekly running speed and distance (p < 0.05). LowSe offspring exhibited glucose intolerance, with increased peak blood glucose (p < 0.05) and area under the curve following an intra-peritoneal injection of glucose (p < 0.05). Furthermore, mRNA expression of several selenoproteins within cardiac and skeletal muscle were increased in LowSe offspring (p < 0.05). The results indicated that selenium deficiency during development reduces exercise behavior. Furthermore, exercise does not prevent programmed glucose intolerance in low-selenium offspring. This highlights that exercise may not be the optimal intervention for metabolic disease in offspring impacted by selenium deficiency in early life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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10 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Assessment of Serum Selenium Concentration in Women with Endometrial Cancer

by Magdalena Janowska, Natalia Potocka, Sylwia Paszek, Marzena Skrzypa, Andrzej Wróbel, Marta Kluz, Piotr Baszuk, Wojciech Marciniak, Jacek Gronwald, Jan Lubiński, Izabela Zawlik and Tomasz Kluz

Nutrients 2022, 14(5), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14050958 - 24 Feb 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2536

Abstract

Background: Numerous studies have shown a relationship between low serum selenium levels and an increased risk of developing cancer. Methods: A total of 306 women participated in the study: 153 patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer and 153 healthy women who were matched, in [...] Read more.

Background: Numerous studies have shown a relationship between low serum selenium levels and an increased risk of developing cancer. Methods: A total of 306 women participated in the study: 153 patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer and 153 healthy women who were matched, in terms of birth year (+/−3 years), to the patients from the study group. The quantitative measurement of selenium content in the collected blood samples was performed using a mass spectrometer with excitation in inductively coupled plasma. In order to determine the relationship between the risk factors and the incidence of endometrial cancer, analyses based on single- and multi-factor conditional logistic regression models were performed. Results: The mean concentration of selenium was lower in patients with endometrial cancer than in healthy controls (60.63 µg/L (0.77 µmol/L) vs. 78.74 µg/L (0.99 µmol/L), respectively). When compared in quartiles, a significant association of lower selenium concentration with the incidence of endometrial cancer was recorded. The highest OR was observed in the first and second quartiles (OR-22.0, p-value < 0.001; medium selenium level 46.95 µg/L (0.59 µmol/L), and OR-5.94; p-value < 0.001; medium selenium level 63.60 µg/L (0.80 µmol/L), respectively). Conclusion: A strong correlation between the level of selenium in the blood serum and the risk of endometrial cancer indicates that patients with low levels should be a candidate group requiring appropriate preventive examinations. Further research on a larger group of patients is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

19 pages, 389 KiB

Open AccessReview

Selenium Status: Its Interactions with Dietary Mercury Exposure and Implications in Human Health

by Ujang Tinggi and Anthony V. Perkins

Nutrients 2022, 14(24), 5308; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14245308 - 14 Dec 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3928

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element in humans and animals and its role in selenoprotein and enzyme antioxidant activity is well documented. Food is the principal source of selenium, and it is important that selenium status in the body is adequately maintained for [...] Read more.

Selenium is an essential trace element in humans and animals and its role in selenoprotein and enzyme antioxidant activity is well documented. Food is the principal source of selenium, and it is important that selenium status in the body is adequately maintained for physiological functions. There has been increasing attention on the role of selenium in mitigating the toxic effects of mercury exposure from dietary intake in humans. In contrast, mercury is a neurotoxin, and its continuous exposure can cause adverse health effects in humans. The interactions of selenium and mercury are multi-factorial and involve complex binding mechanisms between these elements at a molecular level. Further insights and understanding in this area may help to evaluate the health implications of dietary mercury exposure and selenium status. This review aims to summarise current information on the interplay of the interactions between selenium and mercury in the body and the protective effect of selenium on at-risk groups in a population who may experience long-term mercury exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

20 pages, 440 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Strategies for Selenium and Iodine Biofortification in Crop Plants

by Eva Duborská, Martin Šebesta, Michaela Matulová, Ondřej Zvěřina and Martin Urík

Nutrients 2022, 14(22), 4717; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14224717 - 8 Nov 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3496

Abstract

Selenium and iodine are essential trace elements for both humans and animals. Among other things, they have an essential role in thyroid function and the production of important hormones by the thyroid gland. Unfortunately, in many areas, soils are deficient in selenium and [...] Read more.

Selenium and iodine are essential trace elements for both humans and animals. Among other things, they have an essential role in thyroid function and the production of important hormones by the thyroid gland. Unfortunately, in many areas, soils are deficient in selenium and iodine, and their amount is insufficient to produce crops with adequate contents to cover the recommended daily intake; thus, deficiencies have an endemic character. With the introduction of iodized table salt in the food industry, the thyroid status of the population has improved, but several areas remain iodine deficient. Furthermore, due to the strong relationship between iodine and selenium in metabolic processes, selenium deficiency often compromises the desired positive impact of salt iodization efforts. Therefore, a considerable number of studies have looked for alternative methods for the simultaneous supplementation of selenium and iodine in foodstuff. In most cases, the subject of these studies is crops; recently, meat has also been a subject of interest. This paper reviews the most recent strategies in agriculture to fortify selenium and iodine in crop plants, their effect on the quality of the plant species used, and the potential impact of food processing on their stability in fortified crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

14 pages, 1030 KiB

Open AccessReview

Reliable Quantification of Ultratrace Selenium in Food, Beverages, and Water Samples by Cloud Point Extraction and Spectrometric Analysis

by Ingrid Hagarová and Lucia Nemček

Nutrients 2022, 14(17), 3530; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14173530 - 27 Aug 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2259

Abstract

Selenium is a trace element essential for the proper functioning of human body. Since it can only be obtained through our diet, knowing its concentrations in different food products is of particular importance. The measurement of selenium content in complex food matrices has [...] Read more.

Selenium is a trace element essential for the proper functioning of human body. Since it can only be obtained through our diet, knowing its concentrations in different food products is of particular importance. The measurement of selenium content in complex food matrices has traditionally been a challenge due to the very low concentrations involved. Some of the difficulties may arise from the abundance of various compounds, which are additionally present in examined material at different concentration levels. The solution to this problem is the efficient separation/preconcentration of selenium from the analyzed matrix, followed by its reliable quantification. This review offers an insight into cloud point extraction, a separation technique that is often used in conjunction with spectrometric analysis. The method allows for collecting information on selenium levels in waters of different complexity (drinking water, river and lake waters), beverages (wine, juices), and a broad range of food (cereals, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables, tea, mushrooms, nuts, etc.). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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15 pages, 5194 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advances in the Study of the Mechanism by Which Selenium and Selenoproteins Boost Immunity to Prevent Food Allergies

by Kongdi Zhu, Shihui Yang, Tong Li, Xin Huang, Yulan Dong, Pengjie Wang and Jiaqiang Huang

Nutrients 2022, 14(15), 3133; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153133 - 29 Jul 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3355

Abstract

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that functions in the body mainly in the form of selenoproteins. The selenoprotein contains 25 members in humans that exhibit a number of functions. Selenoproteins have immunomodulatory functions and can enhance the ability of immune system to [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that functions in the body mainly in the form of selenoproteins. The selenoprotein contains 25 members in humans that exhibit a number of functions. Selenoproteins have immunomodulatory functions and can enhance the ability of immune system to regulate in a variety of ways, which can have a preventive effect on immune-related diseases. Food allergy is a specific immune response that has been increasing in number in recent years, significantly reducing the quality of life and posing a major threat to human health. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the role of Se and selenoproteins in regulating the immune system and how dysregulation of these processes may lead to food allergies. Thus, we can explain the mechanism by which Se and selenoproteins boost immunity to prevent food allergies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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9 pages, 3891 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Impact on the Clinical Prognosis of Low Serum Selenium Level in Patients with Severe Trauma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Shang-Yu Chan, Chih-Po Hsu, Chun-Hsiang Ou Yang, Chia-Cheng Wang, Yu-Tung Wu, Chih-Yuan Fu, Chi-Hsun Hsieh, Chi-Tung Cheng, Wei-Cheng Lin, Jen-Fu Huang and Chien-Hung Liao

Nutrients 2022, 14(6), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14061295 - 18 Mar 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2382

Abstract

This study was designed to examine the most up-to-date evidence about how low plasma selenium (Se) concentration affects clinical outcomes, such as mortality, infectious complications, and length of ICU or hospital stay, in patients with major trauma. We searched three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, [...] Read more.

This study was designed to examine the most up-to-date evidence about how low plasma selenium (Se) concentration affects clinical outcomes, such as mortality, infectious complications, and length of ICU or hospital stay, in patients with major trauma. We searched three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science) with the following keywords: “injury”, “trauma”, “selenium”, and “trace element”. Only records written in English published between 1990 and 2021 were included for analysis. Four studies were eligible for meta-analyses. The results of the meta-analysis showed that a low serum selenium level did not exert a negative effect on the mortality rate (OR 1.07, 95% CI: 0.32, 3.61, p = 0.91, heterogeneity, I² = 44%). Regarding the incidence of infectious complications, there was no statistically significant deficit after analyses of the four studies (OR 1.61, 95% CI: 0.64, 4.07, p = 0.31, heterogeneity, I² = 70%). There were no differences in the days spent in the ICU (difference in means (MD) 1.53, 95% CI: −2.15, 5.22, p = 0.41, heterogeneity, I² = 67%) or the hospital length of stay (MD 6.49, 95% CI: −4.05, 17.02, p = 0.23, heterogeneity, I² = 58%) in patients with low serum Se concentration. A low serum selenium level after trauma is not uncommon. However, it does not negatively affect mortality and infection rate. It also does not increase the overall length of ICU and hospital stays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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18 pages, 997 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Selenoproteins in the Human Placenta: How Essential Is Selenium to a Healthy Start to Life?

by Claire Hogan and Anthony V. Perkins

Nutrients 2022, 14(3), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14030628 - 31 Jan 2022

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5036

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element required for human health, and selenium deficiency has been associated with many diseases. The daily recommended intake of selenium is 60 µg/day for adults, which increases to 65 µg/day for women when pregnant. Selenium is incorporated into [...] Read more.

Selenium is an essential trace element required for human health, and selenium deficiency has been associated with many diseases. The daily recommended intake of selenium is 60 µg/day for adults, which increases to 65 µg/day for women when pregnant. Selenium is incorporated into the 21st amino acid, selenocysteine (sec), a critical component of selenoproteins that plays an important role in a variety of biological responses such as antioxidant defence, reactive oxygen species (ROS) signalling, formation of thyroid hormones, DNA synthesis and the unfolded protein response in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Although 25 selenoproteins have been identified, the role of many of these is yet to be fully characterised. This review summarises the current evidence demonstrating that selenium is essential for a healthy pregnancy and that poor selenium status leads to gestational disorders. In particular, we focus on the importance of the placental selenoproteome, and the role these proteins may play in a healthy start to life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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15 pages, 1813 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Selenium Supplementation in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment or Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Meire Ellen Pereira, Júlia Vicentin Souza, Maria Eduarda Andrade Galiciolli, Fernanda Sare, Giovanna Scorsin Vieira, Isabeli Lopes Kruk and Cláudia Sirlene Oliveira

Nutrients 2022, 14(15), 3205; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14153205 - 5 Aug 2022

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 6935

Abstract

Elevated levels of oxidative stress could cause and aggravate Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Selenium (Se) is a trace element with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity with neuroprotective effects. To evaluate the effects of Se supplementation in patients with AD or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through [...] Read more.

Elevated levels of oxidative stress could cause and aggravate Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Selenium (Se) is a trace element with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity with neuroprotective effects. To evaluate the effects of Se supplementation in patients with AD or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through a systematic review and meta-analysis, data were searched and collected from four electronic databases, including clinical trial studies published until December 2020, following the PRISMA guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed by RevMan, and the risk of bias was assessed using the Rob 2 tool. A total of 1350 scientific papers were collected, and following evaluation 11 papers were included in the systematic review and 6 of these were used in the meta-analysis. Studies that evaluated only Se supplementation observed an improvement in Se levels, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity, and in some cognitive tests in MCI patients; similarly, improvement in Se levels and mini-mental score was also observed in AD patients. Regarding supplementation of Se plus other nutrients, improvement in cognitive tests was observed in both AD and MCI patients. Therefore, Se supplementation is a good alternative for patients with AD and MCI for improving Se levels and GPX activity. More detailed studies are required to further evaluate the effects of Se on the cognitive deficit and oxidative stress associated with AD and MCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Selenium Intake and Human Health)

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