[Study on binding forms of selenium in selenium-enriched Salvia miltiorrhiza]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Plant Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Salvia miltiorrhiza is a medicinal plant with potential for selenium enrichment.
• Understanding selenium speciation in plants is crucial for its bioavailability and toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify selenium-binding macromolecules (proteins, polysaccharides, nucleic acids) in selenium-enriched Salvia miltiorrhiza.
• To assess the biotransformation efficiency of inorganic selenium compounds in this plant.

Main Methods:

• Extraction of selenium-binding compounds using various solvents.
• Quantification of proteins, polysaccharides, and nucleic acids via spectrophotometry.
• Determination of total selenium concentration using Hydride Generation Atomic Fluorescence Spectrometry (HG-AFS).

Main Results:

• Selenium-binding proteins constituted the largest fraction (74.2%) of total selenium.
• Water-soluble proteins showed the highest selenium concentration (46.0%).
• Selenium-binding polysaccharides accounted for 39.5% and nucleic acids for 2.3% of total selenium.

Conclusions:

• Selenium in Salvia miltiorrhiza predominantly exists as selenium-binding proteins and polysaccharides.
• Cultivation of selenium-enriched Salvia miltiorrhiza demonstrates efficient biotransformation of inorganic selenium into organic forms.