Selenium compounds as therapeutic agents in cancer

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Oncology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Cancer cells exhibit elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, creating a vulnerability exploitable by pro-oxidant therapies.
• Oxidative stress is a tumor-specific target for novel anticancer agent design.
• Selenium compounds are recognized for their significant chemotherapeutic potential due to their redox-modulating properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms of selenium compounds' anticancer effects.
• To discuss the role of selenium speciation, metabolic pathways, and chemical properties in biological activity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on molecular mechanisms of selenium compounds in cancer.
• Analysis of inorganic and organic selenium compounds, including selenium-based nanoparticles.
• Discussion of redox modulation and oxidative stress in cancer therapy.

Main Results:

• Selenium compounds can act as pro-oxidants at higher doses, exerting anticancer effects.
• The biological activity and anticancer mechanisms of selenium compounds are highly dependent on their speciation and cellular/tissue metabolic pathways.
• Chemical properties and molecular mechanisms vary significantly among different selenium compounds and nanoparticles.

Conclusions:

• Deepening mechanistic knowledge of selenium compounds is crucial for optimizing their antitumor properties.
• Future applications of selenium compounds in cancer treatment depend on designing more specific and effective agents.
• This review contributes to understanding redox regulation in cancer therapy.