Analytical and bioanalytical approaches to unravel the selenium-mercury antagonism: a review

Mercury is a well-known risk to ecosystems and human health. Considering that no effective treatment is available to counteract mercury toxicity, the effectiveness of different trace elements, agents and nutrients with antioxidant properties to protect or reverse mercury toxicity is crucial. In this article we present the main analytical and bioanalytical strategies that have been used to study the potential of selenium as a protective agent against mercury-induced toxicity. We review the different seleno-species and routes of administration tested, and consider the analytical approaches used to evaluate the influence of selenium on the uptake and assimilation of mercury by model animals. In addition, we describe a variety of methods for toxicity assessment that have been used to elucidate the antagonism mercury-selenium, and critically review the main results obtained to date. Future potential research interests that could provide a clearer picture of this phenomenon are also presented.