Selenium-Enriched Soy Protein Has Antioxidant Potential via Modulation of the NRF2-HO1 Signaling Pathway.

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Oxidative Stress Research

Background:

• Selenium (Se)-enriched proteins are vital dietary Se sources, but few have been identified.
• Understanding the antioxidant potential of Se-enriched proteins is crucial for human health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the antioxidant activity of Se-enriched soy protein isolate (S-SPI) in vitro and in vivo.
• To compare S-SPI with ordinary soy protein isolate (O-SPI).

Main Methods:

• In vitro assays assessed free radical scavenging ability and Caco-2 cell viability.
• In vivo studies involved oral gavage of S-SPI and O-SPI in BALB/c mice.
• NRF2-HO1 signaling pathway modulation and antioxidant enzyme expression (GPx, SOD) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• S-SPI exhibited superior free radical scavenging compared to O-SPI.
• S-SPI enhanced Caco-2 cell viability at low doses.
• S-SPI upregulated GPx and SOD expression via the NRF2-HO1 pathway.
• Hepatic GPx and SOD activity increased with S-SPI dosage in mice.

Conclusions:

• Se-enriched soy protein possesses significant antioxidant capacity.
• S-SPI effectively inhibits oxidative stress both in vitro and in vivo.
• S-SPI holds potential as a dietary supplement for oxidative damage-mediated diseases.