Selenium Compounds as Novel Potential Anticancer Agents

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Cancer incidence and mortality remain significant global health concerns.
• Existing cancer therapies can be burdensome for patients, necessitating the search for novel treatments.
• Selenium (Se) compounds have demonstrated chemopreventive properties, prompting investigation into their efficacy against established cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss the anticancer activities of various classes of selenium-containing compounds.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of action and molecular targets of these selenium compounds in cancer treatment.
• To explore both inorganic and organic selenium compounds, including natural and synthetic derivatives.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on selenium compounds and their anticancer effects.
• Categorization of selenium compounds into inorganic (selenite, selenate) and various organic classes.
• Analysis of documented mechanisms and molecular targets associated with anticancer activity.

Main Results:

• Diverse classes of selenium compounds, including diselenides, selenides, selenoesters, methylseleninic acid, 1,2-benzisoselenazole-3[2H]-one, selenophene derivatives, selenoamino acids, and Selol, exhibit anticancer potential.
• These compounds act through various mechanisms to target cancer cells.
• Evidence suggests selenium's role extends beyond prevention to impacting existing malignancies.

Conclusions:

• Selenium compounds represent a promising area for developing new, less burdensome cancer therapies.
• Understanding the diverse mechanisms and molecular targets is crucial for optimizing selenium-based anticancer strategies.
• Further research into these compounds could lead to novel therapeutic agents for various cancers.