Is Selenium Supplementation Beneficial in Acute Ischemic Stroke?

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Selenium (Se) is crucial for brain function, with reduced levels and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity observed in stroke patients.
• Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) presents a significant neurological challenge, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of intravenous Selenase in patients diagnosed with AIS.
• To assess the impact of Selenase on neurological deficits, antioxidant enzyme activity, and inflammatory markers post-stroke.

Main Methods:

• Fifty AIS patients were randomized to receive either Selenase or placebo for five days.
• Neurological outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS).
• Serum GPx concentration, total antioxidant activity, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured.

Main Results:

• Selenase administration significantly increased GPx activity and total antioxidant levels compared to placebo.
• Serum TNF-α levels were significantly reduced in the Selenase group.
• Patients receiving Selenase showed significant improvements in mRS and NIHSS scores.

Conclusions:

• Intravenous Selenase demonstrates a positive therapeutic effect in AIS patients, likely attributed to its antioxidant properties.
• Selenase improves neurological outcomes, enhances antioxidant capacity, and modulates inflammatory responses in acute ischemic stroke.