Role of selenium in IgE mediated soybean allergy development

Food allergy is a pathological immune reaction triggered by normal innocuous dietary proteins. Soybean is widely used in many food products and has long been recognized as a source of high-quality proteins. However, soybean is listed as one of the 8 most significant food allergens. The prevalence of soybean allergy is increasing worldwide and impacts the quality of life of patients. Currently, the only strategy to manage food allergy relies on strict avoidance of the offending food. Nutritional supplementation is a new prevention strategy which is currently under evaluation. Selenium (Se), as one of the essential micronutrients for humans and animals, carries out biological effects through its incorporation into selenoproteins. The use of interventions with micronutrients, like Se, might be an interesting new approach. In this review we describe the involvement of Se in a variety of processes, including maintaining immune homeostasis, preventing free radical damage, and modulating the gut microbiome, all of which may contribute to in both the prevention and treatment of food allergy. Se interventions could be an interesting new approach for future treatment strategies to manage soybean allergy, and food allergy in general, and could help to improve the quality of life for food allergic patients.