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Selenium in biology

D V Frost, P M Lish

Annual Review of Pharmacology

|January 1, 1975

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Selenium (Se) is a vital catalyst in biological systems, acting as an enzyme cofactor that protects cell membranes, aids metabolism, and is essential for various species. Despite past toxicity concerns, its role in health and disease prevention is increasingly recognized.

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Area of Science:

Biochemistry
Nutritional Science
Toxicology

Background:

Selenium (Se) acts as a crucial catalyst and enzyme cofactor in biological processes.
It plays a role in protecting cell membranes, metabolism, and synthesis pathways.
Historically, Se has been associated with toxicity, but its essentiality and benefits are now better understood.

Purpose of the Study:

To elucidate the multifaceted roles of selenium in biological systems.
To address historical misconceptions regarding selenium's toxicity and benefits.
To highlight the potential of selenium in human and animal health and disease prevention.

Main Methods:

Literature review and synthesis of existing evidence on selenium's biochemical functions.
Analysis of selenium's role in enzyme catalysis, membrane protection, and metabolic pathways.

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Examination of selenium's interactions with other nutrients and its toxicological profile.

Main Results:

Selenium functions as a potent catalyst and essential cofactor for numerous enzymes.
It protects cell membranes from oxidative damage and is involved in crucial metabolic processes.
Selenium's toxicity is linked to overaccumulation, but it also acts as an antidote to heavy metal toxicity.
Evidence suggests potential anticancer properties and therapeutic value in chronic diseases.

Conclusions:

Selenium is an essential trace element with diverse and critical biological functions.
Correcting misunderstandings about selenium's toxicology and biochemistry is vital for leveraging its health benefits.
Further research into selenium's interrelations with Vitamin E, ubiquinones, and chronic diseases holds significant promise for agriculture, medicine, and public health.