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Selenium and selenoproteins: key regulators of ferroptosis and therapeutic targets in cancer

  • 0Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-Do, 13496, Republic of Korea.
Journal of Molecular Medicine +

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June 17, 2025

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June 17, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Selenium and selenoproteins regulate ferroptosis, a cell death pathway crucial in cancer. Targeting these pathways, especially GPX4, offers new cancer treatment strategies by selectively inducing cell death.

Area Of Science

  • Cancer Biology
  • Cell Death Mechanisms
  • Nutritional Biochemistry

Background

  • Ferroptosis is a regulated form of cell death driven by lipid peroxidation.
  • Selenoproteins, particularly glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), play a key role in preventing ferroptosis.
  • The system Xc<sup>-</sup>/GSH axis is central to GPX4-mediated ferroptosis suppression.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To review the role of selenium (Se) metabolism and selenoproteins in ferroptosis.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting Se pathways in cancer.
  • To highlight the differential dependence of cancer cells on Se.

Main Methods

  • Literature review synthesizing current understanding of Se metabolism and ferroptosis pathways.
  • Analysis of the role of key selenoproteins (GPX4, selenoprotein P) in ferroptosis regulation.
  • Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting Se-dependent pathways.

Main Results

  • Selenoproteins, especially GPX4, are critical in mitigating lipid peroxidation and preventing ferroptosis.
  • Selenoprotein P influences Se transport and contributes to ferroptosis resistance in some cancers.
  • Disrupting GPX4 and selenoprotein P function presents promising cancer therapeutic avenues.
  • Cancer cells exhibit differential dependence on Se, suggesting potential for selective ferroptosis induction.

Conclusions

  • Selenium metabolism critically influences ferroptosis susceptibility and resistance.
  • Targeting Se pathways, particularly GPX4, offers a viable strategy for cancer therapy.
  • Further research into Se-mediated ferroptosis mechanisms can lead to innovative cancer treatments.

Keywords:

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