Protective role of selenium in sepsis: Mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies

Sepsis is an inflammatory disease caused by a severe infection, and its pathological process involves complex immune reactions and inflammatory cascades. This condition often leads to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, which is one of the main causes of patient mortality. In recent years, researchers have paid extensive attention to the protective role of selenium (Se) in sepsis. Se is believed to potentially counteract organ dysfunction caused by sepsis through various mechanisms and is considered a potential therapeutic strategy. This review extensively discusses the potential mechanisms of Se in sepsis. We explore the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Se, as well as its regulatory effects on immune cell activity, expression of inflammatory mediators, and oxidative stress. In addition, we examine the impact of Se on organ damage and organ dysfunction caused by sepsis, with a focus on its protective effects on important organs such as the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, kidneys, and liver. We evaluate relevant preclinical and clinical studies to assess the potential of Se as a treatment for sepsis-related organ dysfunction. We discuss the optimization of Se administration routes, dosages, and timing, and summarize the impact of Se on clinical outcomes and survival rates. In summary, Se demonstrates significant potential as a therapeutic strategy in sepsis-related organ dysfunction. However, further research is still needed to delve into the mechanisms of Se and optimize its application in clinical practice. This will provide breakthroughs in the treatment of sepsis patients, improving their prognosis and survival rates.