Association between circulating selenium levels and arterial stiffness: a nationwide cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Nutritional Science
• Biomarkers

Background:

• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a leading global cause of mortality.
• Arterial stiffness is a key pathological feature of ASCVD.
• The role of selenium (Se) in arterial stiffness is not fully understood, particularly the link between circulating Se (Cse) levels and arterial stiffness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between circulating selenium (Cse) levels and markers of arterial stiffness.
• To explore the relationship between Cse levels, estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV), and the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP).

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 11,937 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2011-2018).
• Utilized univariate and multivariate linear regression, dose-response, and mediation analyses to assess relationships.
• Examined associations between Cse levels, ePWV, and AIP.

Main Results:

• A U-shaped relationship was observed between Cse levels and high ePWV (P < 0.001).
• Cse levels below 2.99 μmol/L were associated with lower ePWV (OR=0.71), while levels at or above 2.99 μmol/L were associated with higher ePWV (OR=2.66).
• A positive association was found between Cse and high AIP (OR=1.48), with sex mediating this relationship (26.49% mediation).

Conclusions:

• Circulating selenium levels are significantly associated with arterial stiffness markers, ePWV and AIP.
• The complex, non-linear relationship suggests a threshold effect for selenium's impact on arterial stiffness.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms linking Cse to arterial stiffness.