Using nano-selenium to combat Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)?

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Immunology
• Virology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic is a significant global health crisis.
• Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with known antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
• These properties suggest a potential antiviral effect.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of selenium's role in combating viral infections.
• To explore the potential of nano-selenium (nanoSe) as a therapeutic strategy against COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on selenium and viral infections.
• Analysis of research on nano-selenium's properties and applications.
• Synthesis of current evidence regarding selenium's impact on viral pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Selenium demonstrates significant antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects beneficial for antiviral defense.
• Evidence suggests selenium's potential to mitigate viral replication and disease severity.
• Nano-selenium exhibits enhanced bioavailability and antiviral activity compared to conventional selenium.

Conclusions:

• Selenium plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system against viral threats.
• Nano-selenium presents a promising avenue for novel therapeutic interventions against COVID-19.
• Further research into nano-selenium for COVID-19 treatment is warranted.