Interaction between trace elements: selenium and cadmium ions

The interaction between several inorganic and organic selenium-containing compounds (selenite, selenate, selenourea and selenomethionine) and Cd2+ ions was studied by polarography. The changes in polarographic currents and half-wave potentials of the metal ions as a function of the Se-derivative concentration were followed. Experimental results suggest a different behaviour depending on the oxidation state of selenium. Any interaction between selenate and Cd2+ ions can be excluded. In the case of selenite, the presence of complexes in the solution was demonstrated. The shift in the Cd2+ reduction half-wave potential when a relatively high concentration of selenourea is present indicates formation of complexes, while the decrease in limiting current reflects the limited solubility of the complex itself. Results concerning selenomethionine suggest a very weak interaction with Cd2+ ions. These preliminary results are discussed in comparison with previous findings in cellular systems and may prove helpful in understanding cadmium ion toxicity and the in vivo altered distribution of various metal ions following the administration of selenium compounds.