Selenoproteins in adipose tissue and obesity

Selenium is an essential micronutrient for the human body, with its biological functions primarily mediated through selenoproteins. Se homeostasis is closely related to glucose and lipid metabolism, and both selinium and selenoproteins participate in regulating the proliferation and differentiation of preadipocytes, as well as mediating lipid metabolism in adipose tissue. This article reviews the relationship between Se, selenoproteins, and obesity, focusing on key selenoproteins such as selenoprotein P, selenoprotein S, selenoprotein F, glutathione peroxidases, and thioredoxin reductases. These selenoproteins play diverse roles in adipocyte function, including adipogenesis, insulin signaling, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. While significant changes in selenoprotein levels have been observed in obese individuals, the specific effects of selenium supplementation on obesity remain unclear. Both selenium deficiency and excess can disrupt selenoprotein expression hierarchies, resulting in adipose dysfunction. Further research is needed to clarify their complex relationship involving selenium, selenoproteins, adipose tissue, and obesity. This comprehensive review provides insights into the potential molecular mechanisms linking selenoproteins to adipose tissue and obesity, and suggests directions for future clinical and experimental studies in this field.