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Influence of selenium on mast cell mediator release
Reza Safaralizadeh1, Maryam Nourizadeh, Ahad Zare
1Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Tabriz, 29 Bahman Blvd, Tabriz, Iran.
Biological Trace Element Research
|June 21, 2013
Summary
Selenium supplementation reduced allergic mediator release from mast cells, even in those not selenium deficient. This suggests selenium benefits allergy and asthma by modulating immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Mast cells are key players in allergic reactions, releasing mediators like histamine and prostaglandin D2.
- Selenium's role in immune response modulation is recognized, but its effect on mast cell degranulation needs further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of sodium selenite on mediator release and degranulation in a murine mast cell line (MC/9).
- To assess selenium's potential to attenuate allergic reactions.
Main Methods:
- Murine MC/9 cells were pre-treated with varying concentrations of sodium selenite (1, 2, 3 μg/ml).
- Cells were sensitized with anti-DNP IgE and challenged to induce degranulation.
- Histamine, prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), and β-hexosaminidase release were measured.
Main Results:
- Selenium treatment significantly decreased prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) and β-hexosaminidase release.
- A trend towards reduced histamine release was observed in selenium-treated cells.
- The highest inhibitory effect was noted with 3 μg/ml sodium selenite.
Conclusions:
- Supplemental selenium demonstrates a beneficial effect in reducing mast cell mediator release.
- Selenium may help attenuate the clinical symptoms of allergy and asthma by modulating mast cell activity.
