Biogenic selenium nanoparticles: a multifunctional tool for combating oxidative stress and chronic diseases

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) exhibit high biocompatibility, redox regulation, and antioxidant properties.
• SeNPs present lower toxicity than traditional selenium supplements while maintaining therapeutic efficacy for oxidative stress and chronic diseases.
• Biogenic SeNPs, synthesized using plants and microbes, are gaining attention for their green production methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synthesis methods for SeNPs, focusing on green approaches.
• To discuss the diverse biomedical applications of SeNPs in conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and PCOS.
• To critically evaluate the pharmacological efficacy and translational potential of biogenic SeNPs, addressing existing knowledge gaps.

Main Methods:

• Review of physical, chemical, and biological synthesis techniques for SeNPs.
• Analysis of SeNP mechanisms, including oxidative stress reduction, apoptosis modulation, and enhancement of chemotherapeutic efficacy.
• Examination of SeNP activity against multidrug-resistant microorganisms and their role as drug carriers.

Main Results:

• SeNPs demonstrate therapeutic value in various diseases and possess antimicrobial properties.
• SeNPs can enhance the action of chemotherapeutic agents and serve as drug delivery systems.
• Knowledge gaps exist regarding comparative analysis of synthesis methods and the neuroprotective roles of specific selenoproteins.

Conclusions:

• Further research is required to standardize SeNP synthesis and assess long-term safety for clinical translation.
• Biogenic SeNPs show promise in nanomedicine and therapeutics, but require more investigation into their mechanisms and efficacy.
• Addressing comparative synthesis characteristics and neuroprotective selenoprotein interactions is crucial for advancing SeNP applications.