The intraoperative decrease of selenium is associated with the postoperative development of multiorgan dysfunction in cardiac surgical patients*:

The effect of a selenium-based anti-inflammatory strategy on postoperative functional recovery in high-risk cardiac surgery patients - A nested sub-study of the sustain CSX trial

AIM

The cardiac surgery-related ischemia-reperfusion-related oxidative stress triggers the release of cytotoxic reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, contributing to organ failure and ultimately influencing patients' short- and long-term outcomes. Selenium is an essential co-factor for various antioxidant enzymes, thereby contributing to the patients' endogenous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defense mechanisms. Given these selenium's pleiotropic functions, we investigated the effect of a high-dose selenium-based anti-inflammatory perioperative strategy on functional recovery after cardiac surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study constituted a nested sub-study of the SUSTAIN CSX trial, a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled multicenter trial to investigate the impact of high-dose selenium supplementation on high-risk cardiac surgery patients' postoperative recovery. Functional recovery was assessed by 6-min walk distance, Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Barthel Index questionnaires.

KEY FINDINGS

174 patients were included in this sub-study. The mean age (SD) was 67.3 (8.9) years, and 78.7 % of the patients were male. The mean (SD) predicted 30-day mortality by the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score was 12.6 % (9.4 %). There was no difference at hospital discharge and after three months in the 6-min walk distance between the selenium and placebo groups (131 m [IQR: not performed - 269] vs. 160 m [IQR: not performed - 252], p = 0.80 and 400 m [IQR: 299-461] vs. 375 m [IQR: 65-441], p = 0.48). The SF-36 and Barthel Index assessments also revealed no clinically meaningful differences between the selenium and placebo groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

A perioperative anti-inflammatory strategy with high-dose selenium supplementation did not improve functional recovery in high-risk cardiac surgery patients.

Selenium as a Modulator of Redox Reactions in the Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases stand as the predominant global cause of mortality, exerting a profound impact on both life expectancy and its quality. Given their immense public health burden, extensive efforts have been dedicated to comprehending the underlying mechanisms and developing strategies for prevention and treatment. Selenium, a crucial participant in redox reactions, emerges as a notable factor in maintaining myocardial cell homeostasis and influencing the progression of cardiovascular disorders. Some disorders, such as Keshan disease, are directly linked with its environmental deficiency. Nevertheless, the precise extent of its impact on the cardiovascular system remains unclear, marked by contradictory findings in the existing literature. High selenium levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension, while lower concentrations have been linked to heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Although some trials have shown its potential effectiveness in specific groups of patients, large cohort supplementation attempts have generally yielded unsatisfactory outcomes. Consequently, there persists a significant need for further research aimed at delineating specific patient cohorts and groups of diseases that would benefit from selenium supplementation.

Selenoprotein-P1 (SEPP1) Expression in Human Proximal Tubule Cells after Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: An In Vitro Model

Background and Objectives: Selenium deficiency represents a risk factor for the occurrence of severe diseases, such as acute kidney injury (AKI). Recently, selenoprotein-p1 (SEPP1), a selenium transporter, mainly released by the liver, has emerged as a promising plasmatic biomarker of AKI as a consequence of cardio-surgery operations. The aim of the present study was to investigate, on an in vitro model of hypoxia induced in renal tubular cells, HK-2, the effects of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) and to evaluate the expression of SEPP1 as a marker of injury. Materials and Methods: HK-2 cells were pre-incubated with 100 nM Na2SeO3 for 24 h, and then, treated for 24 h with CoCl2 (500 µM), a chemical hypoxia inducer. The results were derived from an ROS assay, MTT, and Western blot analysis. Results: The pre-treatment determined an increase in cells' viability and a reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS), as shown by MTT and the ROS assay. Moreover, by Western blot an increase in SEPP1 expression was observed after hypoxic injury as after adding sodium selenite. Conclusions: Our preliminary results shed light on the possible role of selenium supplementation as a means to prevent oxidative damage and to increase SEPP1 after acute kidney injury. In our in vitro model, SEPP1 emerges as a promising biomarker of kidney injury, although further studies in vivo are necessary to validate our findings.

The Effect of Parenteral Selenium Therapy on Serum Concentration of Inflammatory Mediators: a Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

Selenium can protect against inflammation through its incorporation in selenoenzymes; therefore, in this study, we assessed the effect of parenteral selenium on C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) through a systematic review and meta-analysis on randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A systematic search was performed in the databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, clinicaltrials.gov, and ISI Web of Science, up to October 2022, with no limitation in study location or publication time. We calculated the effect size by the mean change from baseline in serum concentration of selected inflammatory mediators and their standard deviations. DerSimonian and Laird random effects model was used to estimate the heterogeneity and summary of the overall effects. Included studies in this systematic review and meta-analysis were 10 and 8 RCTs, respectively. Our results revealed parenteral selenium significantly decreased serum IL-6 (Weighted Mean Difference (WMD) = -3.85 pg/ml; 95% confidence interval (CI) = -7.37, -0.34 pg/ml; p = 0.032) but did not significantly change serum levels of CRP (WMD = 4.58 mg/L; 95% CI = -6.11, 15.27 mg/L; P = 0.401) compared to the comparison groups. According to our results, parenteral selenium supplementation might reduce serum levels of inflammatory mediators.

Dynamic changes of serum trace elements following cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cardiac surgeries are known to induce an inflammatory response. Besides, dietary factors such as trace elements contribute to promoting cardiovascular health by maintaining oxidative balance. Here we systematically review the literature about alterations in serum concentrations of zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and selenium (Se) in response to cardiac surgeries.

METHODS

A systematic search was performed on databases until the end of December 2022. Studies assessing the changes of mentioned elements in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery were included. Changes in the means and standard deviations of the elements before and after the cardiac surgery were utilized as desired effect sizes.

RESULTS

Among 1252 records found in the primary search, 23 and 21 articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis respectively. Seventeen studies evaluated the changes in serum Zn and Cu levels, and fifteen studies assessed Se levels. According to the results of quantitative analysis, Zn, Cu, and Se concentrations, one day after the surgery were significantly lower than preoperative values (WMD for Zn: 4.64 µmol/L [3.57-5.72], WMD for Cu: 1.62 µmol/L [0.52-2.72], and WMD for Se: 0.1 µmol/L [0.03-0.16]). The concentration of trace elements recovered gradually during the first-week post-operation and reached preoperative levels or even higher.

CONCLUSION

Serum trace elements dropped significantly soon after the cardiac surgery, but they reached their baseline levels mostly during the first week after the surgery. Future studies are warranted to elucidate the impact of alterations in serum concentration of trace elements on the outcomes and complications of open-heart surgeries.

Perioperative selenium administration in cardiac surgery patients, a way out to reduce post surgical adversities? A meta analysis

Introduction

The oxidative damage suffered in cardiac surgery is associated with declining trace elements which lead to the development of multi organ dysfunction (MOD), acute kidney injury (AKI), or increased length of hospital stay (LOS). Recent evidence shows the cardioprotective role of the trace element selenium as it mitigates worsening outcomes post cardiac surgery. Hence, this meta analysis aims to investigate the role of selenium in lowering cardiac surgery related adverse outcomes.

Methods

Literature search of five electronic databases was performed from the inception of the paper till 29th July, 2023. Eligibility criteria included; (a) randomized clinical trials with Adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing cardiac surgery (b) intervention with selenium pre or/and postoperatively; (c) a control group of a placebo, normal saline, or no selenium. Outcomes of interest include postoperative mortality, LOS in the hospital and Intensive Care Unit (ICU), AKI, troponin I, and Creatinine Kinase-MB (CK-MB). The Cochrane bias assessment tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Outcomes were pooled with the Mantel-Haenszel Random-effects model using Review Manager.

Results

Seven RCTs with 2,521 patients and 65% of males were included in this paper. No noticable differences were observed between selenium and control groups in terms of postoperative AKI, mortality, LOS in hospital and ICU, troponin I, and CK-MB levels. All studies had a low risk of bias on quality assessment.

Discussion

Our meta analysis demonstrated no discernible effects of selenium infusion on post operative complications among patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Further large scale multi centered studies comparing the protective role of selenium with combined therapy of other bioactive agents are needed to provide convincing explanations.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO Identifier: 424920.

Trace Element Status and Postoperative Morbidity After On-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Trace elements are essential micronutrients that take part in most antioxidant reactions in the body. In this study, we evaluated the levels of copper, chromium, manganese, selenium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and silicon in adult patients who undergone isolated on-pump coronary artery bypass with the occurrence of postoperative atrial fibrillation, transient renal injury, transient liver injury, and rate of wound infection; 51 adult patients (41 men, 10 women) underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) under cardiopulmonary bypass. The mean age was 61,9 ± 8,0 years (range 45-82 years). Blood samples were collected preoperatively, postoperative first hour, postoperative first day, and fifth postoperative day for element analysis. Serum levels were determined by an Inductive Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer (ICAP 6000). Serum copper, zinc, and selenium values, typically known as strong antioxidant elements in the body, decreased significantly during the first hour and first day of postoperative period compared to the preoperative period (p < 0.05). Also, postoperative atrial fibrillation, transient renal injury, transient liver injury, and rate of wound infection were observed to increase with the decrease in levels of trace elements (p < 0.05). The levels of these elements were observed to return to normal levels during the fifth postoperative day. The levels of trace elements decrease significantly after on-pump coronary artery bypass surgery. Our study results suggest that this could be one of the predisposing factors for increased postoperative atrial fibrillation, transient kidney injury, transient renal injury, and increased rate of wound infections for patients undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

Plasma metallomics reveals potential biomarkers and insights into the ambivalent associations of elements with acute myocardial infarction

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Using a validated and efficient ICP-MS/MS-based workflow, a total of 30 metallomic features were profiled in a study comprising 101 AMI patients and 66 age-matched healthy controls. The metallomic features include 12 essential elements (Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, S, Se, Zn), 8 non-essential/toxic elements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Ni, Rb, Sr, U, V), and 10 clinically relevant element-pair product/ratios (Ca/Mg, Ca×P, Cu/Se, Cu/Zn, Fe/Cu, P/Mg, Na/K, Zn/Se). Preliminary linear regression with feature selection confirmed smoking status as a predominant determinant for the non-essential/toxic elements, and revealed potential routes of action. Univariate assessments with adjustments for covariates revealed insights into the ambivalent relationships of Cu, Fe, and P with AMI, while also confirming cardioprotective associations of Se. Also, beyond their roles as risk factors, Cu and Se may be involved in the response mechanism in AMI onset/intervention, as demonstrated via longitudinal data analysis with 2 additional time-points (1-/6-month follow-up). Finally, based on both univariate tests and multivariate classification modelling, potentially more sensitive markers measured as element-pair ratios were identified (e.g., Cu/Se, Fe/Cu). Overall, metallomics-based biomarkers may have utility for AMI prediction.

Effect of High-Dose Selenium on Postoperative Organ Dysfunction and Mortality in Cardiac Surgery Patients: The SUSTAIN CSX Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Selenium contributes to antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory pathways, which may improve outcomes in patients at high risk of organ dysfunctions after cardiac surgery.

Objective

To assess the ability of high-dose intravenous sodium selenite treatment to reduce postoperative organ dysfunction and mortality in cardiac surgery patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial took place at 23 sites in Germany and Canada from January 2015 to January 2021. Adult cardiac surgery patients with a European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score-predicted mortality of 5% or more or planned combined surgical procedures were randomized.

Interventions

Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) by a web-based system to receive either perioperative intravenous high-dose selenium supplementation of 2000 μg/L of sodium selenite prior to cardiopulmonary bypass, 2000 μg/L immediately postoperatively, and 1000 μg/L each day in intensive care for a maximum of 10 days or placebo.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was a composite of the numbers of days alive and free from organ dysfunction during the first 30 days following cardiac surgery.

Results

A total of 1416 adult cardiac surgery patients were analyzed (mean [SD] age, 68.2 [10.4] years; 1043 [74.8%] male). The median (IQR) predicted 30-day mortality by European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II score was 8.7% (5.6%-14.9%), and most patients had combined coronary revascularization and valvular procedures. Selenium did not increase the number of persistent organ dysfunction-free and alive days over the first 30 postoperative days (median [IQR], 29 [28-30] vs 29 [28-30]; P = .45). The 30-day mortality rates were 4.2% in the selenium and 5.0% in the placebo group (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.50-1.36; P = .44). Safety outcomes did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

In high-risk cardiac surgery patients, perioperative administration of high-dose intravenous sodium selenite did not reduce morbidity or mortality. The present data do not support the routine perioperative use of selenium for patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02002247.

High dose supplementation of selenium in left ventricular assist device implant surgery - a double-blinded, randomized controlled, pilot trial

BACKGROUND

Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress remain the main cause of complications in heart failure patients receiving a left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Selenoproteins are a cornerstone of antioxidant defense mechanisms for improving inflammatory conditions.

METHODS

We conducted a monocentric double-blinded, randomized pilot trial. Patients scheduled for LVAD implantation were randomized to receive 300μg of selenium the evening before surgery orally, followed by high-dose intravenous selenium supplementation (3000μg after anesthesia induction, 1000 μg upon intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and 1000μg daily at ICU for a maximum of 14 days), or placebo. The main outcomes of this pilot study were feasibility and effectiveness in restoring serum selenium concentrations.

RESULTS

20 out of 21 randomized patients were included in the analysis. The average recruitment rate was 1.5 patients/month (0-3). The average duration of study intervention was 12.6 days (7-14) with a 97.7% dose compliance. No patient received open-label selenium. The supplementation strategy was effective in compensating low serum selenium concentration (before surgery: control: 63.5±11.9μg/L vs. intervention: 65.8±16.5μg/L, ICU admission: control: 49.0±9.8μg/L vs. intervention: 144.2±45.4μg/L). Comparing to the control group, the serum selenium concentrations in the intervention group were significantly higher during the observation period (baseline: mean of placebo (MoP):63.1 vs. mean of selenium (MoS):64.0; ICU admission: MoP:49.0 vs. MoS:144.6; day 1:MoP:44.9 vs. MoS: 102.4; day 3: MoP:43.6 vs. MoS:100.4; day 5: MoP:48.5 vs. MoS:114.7; day 7: MoP:44.4 vs.MoS:118.3; day 13:MoP:48.0 vs. MoS:131.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Selenium supplementation in patients receiving LVAD-implantation is feasible and effective to compensate a selenium deficiency. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Relationship Between Selenium Trace and Patient Outcome After Open-Heart Surgery

Background

Acute stress response to heart surgery can cause major morbidity in patients. The trace of selenium is useful for preventing heart damage. Although the trend of selenium changes is of high importance for body balance, the usefulness of routine use and effectiveness of this element for patients under open-heart surgery is still unclear.

Objectives

This study aimed at assessing serum selenium level before and after open-heart surgery and the relationship between selenium trace and patient outcome.

Methods

This prospective analytical study was performed on 100 patients undergoing open-heart surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). In all patients, the serum level was measured at a predetermined time (before surgery and one and two days after surgery). Then, the relationship between serum selenium and patient outcome was assessed.

Results

The mean serum selenium level in patients on admission was 72.90 ± 14.62 μg/L, one day after surgery was 71.20 ± 15.84 μg/L, and two days after surgery was 71.54 ± 15.97 μg/L. Serum selenium levels were inversely and significantly associated with age (r = -0.183; P = 0.034, 013) duration of surgery (r = -221 and P = 0.014), duration of intensive care unit stay (r = 0.204, P = 0.021), and duration of CPB (r = 0.223, P = 013).

Conclusions

Based on this study’s results, a low level of selenium can affect patients’ outcomes after open-heart surgery.

Effects of High-Dose Selenium Supplementation on Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers in Critically Ill Children After Gastrointestinal Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Pediatric observational studies have indicated that most critically ill children have low serum selenium level, which is associated with the increased incidence of multiple organ failure and deteriorated clinical outcomes. Selenium plays a key role in the endogenous antioxidant defense mechanism and inflammatory pathways. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the effects of high-dose selenium supplementation on the improvement of inflammatory and oxidative stress indices, as well as clinical outcomes, in pediatric patients with severe oxidative stress and inflammation following major gastrointestinal surgeries. Methods: This prospective, single-blind, randomized, parallel group superiority trial was conducted at the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Akbar Pediatric Hospital in Mashhad, Iran in 2019. Patients were assigned to the supplementation (high-dose selenium: 20 µg/kg/d) and control groups (placebo with the recommended dietary allowance doses of selenium) using stratified blocks. Among 72 eligible critically ill children after gastrointestinal surgery, 66 patients completed the study. Inflammatory markers were measured and compared between the groups, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) assay, and clinical outcomes. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 20 using the intention-to-treat approach. Results: Only 14 patients had optimal serum selenium concentrations before the surgery and PICU admission. At the end of the study, 90.6% of the patients (n = 29) in the intervention group and 100% (n = 34) of those in the placebo group had suboptimal serum selenium levels (< 50 ng/mL). Although supplementation with high-dose selenium decreased the inflammatory markers in the post-surgical critically ill children (-18 mg/mL and -37.5 pg/mL for hsCRP and IL-1β, respectively), the administered dose could not improve the serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx) concentrations as the selenium functional marker, as well as the PAB assay as the single test to assess the balance/imbalance of the oxidants and antioxidants simultaneously. Additionally, clinical outcomes such as infections, length of ICU stay, and 28-day mortality did not improve after the intervention. Conclusions: According to the results, high-dose selenium supplementation (20 µg/kg/d) in the post-surgical critically ill children could improve the serum inflammatory markers. However, the changes were suboptimal with no significant effects of the serum GPx concentrations, antioxidant defense system, and clinical outcomes.

Selenoprotein P as Biomarker of Selenium Status in Clinical Trials with Therapeutic Dosages of Selenite

Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) is an established biomarker of selenium (Se) status. Serum SELENOP becomes saturated with increasing Se intake, reaching maximal concentrations of 5–7 mg SELENOP/L at intakes of ca. 100–150 µg Se/d. A biomarker for higher Se intake is missing. We hypothesized that SELENOP may also reflect Se status in clinical applications of therapeutic dosages of selenite. To this end, blood samples from two supplementation studies employing intravenous application of selenite at dosages >1 mg/d were analyzed. Total Se was quantified by spectroscopy, and SELENOP by a validated ELISA. The high dosage selenite infusions increased SELENOP in parallel to elevated Se concentrations relatively fast to final values partly exceeding 10 mg SELENOP/L. Age or sex were not related to the SELENOP increase. Western blot analyses of SELENOP verified the results obtained by ELISA, and indicated an unchanged pattern of immunoreactive protein isoforms. We conclude that the saturation of SELENOP concentrations observed in prior studies with moderate Se dosages (<400 µg/d) may reflect an intermediate plateau of expression, rather than an absolute upper limit. Circulating SELENOP seems to be a suitable biomarker for therapeutic applications of selenite exceeding the recommended upper intake levels. Whether SELENOP is also capable of reflecting other supplemental selenocompounds in high dosage therapeutic applications remains to be investigated.

The Organ-Protective Effect of Higher Partial Pressure of Arterial Carbon Dioxide in the Normal Range for Infant Patients Undergoing Ventricular Septal Defect Repair

Hypercapnia has been reported to play an active role in protection against organ injury. The aim of this study was to determine whether a higher level of partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO₂) within the normal range in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery had a similar organ-protective effect. From May 2017 to May 2018, 83 consecutive infant patients undergoing ventricular septal defect (VSD) repair with cardiopulmonary bypass were retrospectively enrolled. We recorded the end-expiratory tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (Pet-CO₂) as an indirect and continuous way to reflect the PaCO₂. The patients were divided into a low PaCO₂ group (LPG; 30 mmHg < Pet-CO₂ < 40 mmHg) and a high PaCO₂ group (HPG; 40 mmHg < Pet-CO₂ < 50 mmHg). The regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rScO₂), cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV), and hemodynamics at five time points throughout the operation, and perioperative data were recorded and analyzed for the two groups. In total, 34 LPG and 49 HPG patients were included. Demographics and perioperative clinical data showed no significant difference between the groups. Compared with LPG, the HPG produced lower postoperative creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB (40.88 versus 50.34 ng/mL, P = 0.038). The postoperative C-reactive protein of HPG trended lower than in LPG (61.09 versus 73.4 mg/L, P = 0.056). The rScO₂ and mean CBFV of HPG were significantly higher compared with LPG (P < 0.05) except at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass. Hemodynamic data showed no significant difference between the groups. As a convenient and safe approach, higher-normal PaCO₂ could attenuate brain injury, heart injury, and inflammatory response in infant patients undergoing VSD repair.

Effects of Selenium Supplementation on Metabolic Status in Patients Undergoing for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) Surgery: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of selenium supplementation on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients undergoing for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 33 patients undergoing for CABG surgery, aged 40-85 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to intake either 200 μg/day selenium supplements as selenium yeast (n = 17) or placebo (n = 16) for 4 weeks. Glycemic control, lipid profiles, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed at baseline and at the end of trial. After the 4-week intervention, selenium supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (β, 6.76 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 13.13, - 0.40; P = 0.03), insulin (β, - 1.14 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 2.01, - 0.28; P = 0.01); homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (β - 0.35; 95% CI, - 0.62, - 0.08; P = 0.01); and total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio (β - 0.31; 95% CI, - 0.51, - 0.09; P = 0.008); and significantly increased HDL-cholesterol levels (β, 2.72 mg/dL; 95% CI, 0.89, 4.55; P = 0.005) compared with the placebo. Moreover, selenium supplementation led to a significant reduction in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β, - 0.68 mg/L; 95% CI, - 1.18, - 0.17; P = 0.01) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (β, - 0.27 μmol/L; 95% CI, - 0.47, - 0.07; P = 0.009), and a significant elevation in total glutathione (GSH) levels (β, 77.33 μmol/L; 95% CI, 56.11, 98.55; P < 0.001) compared with the placebo. Selenium supplementation did not affect other metabolic profiles. Overall, our study demonstrated that selenium supplementation for 4 weeks to patients undergoing for CABG surgery had beneficial effects on FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio, HDL-cholesterol, hs-CRP, GSH, and MDA levels, but did not affect other metabolic profiles. Clinical trial registration number: http://www.irct.ir : IRCT2017090533941N22.

Perioperative Vitamin C and E levels in Cardiac Surgery Patients and Their Clinical Significance

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress contributes to organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery and still represents a major problem. Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E might be organ protective.

METHODS

The primary objective of this prospective observational study was the description to evaluate the perioperative vitamin C and E levels in 56 patients undergoing cardiac surgery with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. The association of vitamin C with inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress, organ dysfunctions, and clinical outcomes were evaluated in an explorative approach.

RESULTS

Vitamin C levels decreased significantly from 6.5 (3.5-11.5) mg/L before surgery to 2.8 (2.0-3.9) mg/L 48 h after surgery (p < 0.0001). Fifty-six percent of patients had a suboptimal vitamin C status even before surgery. In protein-denaturized probes, significantly higher vitamin C concentrations were detected (p = 0.0008). Vitamin E levels decreased significantly from preoperative level 11.6 (9.5-13.2) mg/L to 7.1 (5.5-7.4) mg/L, (p = 0.0002) at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass, remained low during the first day on ICU and recovered to 8.2 (7.1-9.3) mg/L 48 h after surgery. No patient was vitamin E deficient before surgery. Analysis showed no statistically significant association of vitamin C with inflammation, oxidative stress or organ dysfunction levels in patients with previously suboptimal vitamin C status or patients with a perioperative decrease of ≥50% vitamin C after surgery. Patients with higher vitamin C levels had a shorter ICU stay than those who were vitamin C depleted, which was not statistically significant (72 versus 135 h, p = 0.1990).

CONCLUSION

Vitamin C and E levels significantly declined intraoperatively and remained significantly reduced low for 2 days after cardiac surgery. The influence of reduced serum levels on the inflammatory reaction and clinical outcome of the patients remain unclear in this small observational study and need to be investigated further. Given vitamin C´s pleiotropic role in the human defense mechanisms, further trials are encouraged to evaluate the clinical significance of Vitamin C in cardiac surgery patients.

Selenium in Cardiac Surgery

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that plays a pivotal role in many of the body's regulatory and metabolic functions, especially during times of stress. After uptake, Se is incorporated into several Se-dependent proteins, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities. Several observational clinical studies have demonstrated that Se deficiency can cause chronic cardiovascular diseases and aggravate organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery and that low levels of Se may be independently associated with the development of organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery. Based on these findings, several studies have investigated the effects of a perioperative Se supplementation strategy. Therefore, the present review describes in depth the pathophysiology and harmful stimuli during cardiac surgery, how Se may counteract these injuries, the different types of Se supplementation strategies that have been evaluated, and current evidence of its clinical significance.

The comparison of zinc, copper and iron levels in serum, aorta and left internal mammarian artery tissues in coronary by-pass graft surgery patients

Trace elements are crucial for vital enzymatic reactions in all metabolic processes. Zinc (Zn) acts as a co-factor for many enzymes. Copper (Cu) and iron (Fe) have pro-atherogenic effects resulting in atherosclerosis. Aorta exposing high pulsatile pressure is sensitive for atherosclerosis because of its fast metabolism and poor nutrition by diffusion from vasa vasorum. We aimed to determine the relationship between serum Zn, Cu and Fe levels with aortic and left internal mammary artery (LIMA) tissues in 33 atherosclerotic individuals who inevitably underwent coronary artery by-pass graft (CBAG) surgery that is an end-point treatment for atherosclerosis. Trace elements in serum and tissues were measured using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrophotometer. Pre-operative (Pre-op) serum Fe levels were statistically 46% higher than post-operative (Post-op) values (p = 0.009). Aortic Fe level was 49.8% higher than LIMA Fe (p = 0.0001). Our study points out the tendency of aortic tissue to atherosclerosis via pro- atherogenic effect of Fe. LIMA, being a potential graft for CBAG, is resistant to atherosclerosis with its intimal specialty of graft patency. In conclusion, serum Zn, Cu and Fe levels in atherosclerotic CBAG patients might be monitored to reveal minor alterations pre-operatively and post-operatively for ameliorating the treatment and life quality.

Oxidation-Reduction Potential in Patients undergoing Transcatheter or Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement

BACKGROUND

Aortic valve stenosis has gained increasingly more importance due to its high prevalence in elderly people. More than two decades ago, transcatheter aortic valve replacement emerged for patients who were denied surgery, and its noninferiority has been demonstrated in numerous studies. Oxidative stress has generated great interest because of its sensitivity to cell damage and the possibility of offering early hints of clinical outcomes. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether there is a significant difference between transcatheter (TAVR) or surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in terms of the changes in oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and antioxidant capacity. Therefore, we investigated perioperative oxidative stress levels and their influence on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A total of 72 patients (50% TAVR versus 50% SAVR) were included in the present study. Static oxidation-reduction potential (sORP) and antioxidant capacity were measured using the RedoxSys™ Diagnostic System (Luoxis Diagnostics, USA) in serum samples drawn before and after surgery, as well as on the first postoperative day. In addition, clinical data were obtained to evaluate the clinical outcome of each case.

RESULTS

TAVR patients had higher preoperative sORP levels compared to the SAVR patients and more severe comorbidities. Unlike the TAVR cohort, patients in the SAVR group showed a significant difference in sORP from the pre- to postoperative levels. Capacity demonstrated higher preoperative levels in the SAVR cohort and also a greater difference postoperatively compared to the TAVR cohort. Regression analysis revealed a significant correlation between pre- and postoperative capacity levels (r = -0.9931, p < 0.0001), providing a method of predicting postoperative capacity levels by knowing the preoperative levels. According to the multivariable analysis, both sORP and antioxidant capacity are dependent on time point, baseline value, and type of surgery, with the largest variations observed for time effect and surgery method.

CONCLUSION

A high preoperative sORP level correlated to more severe illness in the TAVR patients. As the TAVR patients did not show significant differences in their preoperative levels, we assume that there was a smaller production of oxidative agents during TAVR due to the less invasive nature of the procedure. Baseline values and development of antioxidant capacity values strengthen this hypothesis. The significant correlation of pre- and postoperative capacity levels might allow high risk patients to be detected more easily and might provide more adequate and individualized therapy preoperatively. This trial is registered with clinicaltrials.gov, identifier: NCT 02488876.

Feeding mitochondria: Potential role of nutritional components to improve critical illness convalescence

Persistent physical impairment is frequently encountered after critical illness. Recent data point towards mitochondrial dysfunction as an important determinant of this phenomenon. This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the present knowledge of mitochondrial function during and after critical illness and the role and potential therapeutic applications of specific micronutrients to restore mitochondrial function. Increased lactate levels and decreased mitochondrial ATP-production are common findings during critical illness and considered to be associated with decreased activity of muscle mitochondrial complexes in the electron transfer system. Adequate nutrient levels are essential for mitochondrial function as several specific micronutrients play crucial roles in energy metabolism and ATP-production. We have addressed the role of B vitamins, ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, selenium, zinc, coenzyme Q10, caffeine, melatonin, carnitine, nitrate, lipoic acid and taurine in mitochondrial function. B vitamins and lipoic acid are essential in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, while selenium, α-tocopherol, Coenzyme Q10, caffeine, and melatonin are suggested to boost the electron transfer system function. Carnitine is essential for fatty acid beta-oxidation. Selenium is involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. Notwithstanding the documented importance of several nutritional components for optimal mitochondrial function, at present, there are no studies providing directions for optimal requirements during or after critical illness although deficiencies of these specific micronutrients involved in mitochondrial metabolism are common. Considering the interplay between these specific micronutrients, future research should pay more attention to their combined supply to provide guidance for use in clinical practise. REVISION NUMBER: YCLNU-D-17-01092R2.

Current Evidence about Nutrition Support in Cardiac Surgery Patients-What Do We Know?

Nutrition support is increasingly recognized as a clinically relevant aspect of the intensive care treatment of cardiac surgery patients. However, evidence from adequate large-scale studies evaluating its clinical significance for patients&rsquo; mid- to long-term outcome remains sparse. Considering nutrition support as a key component in the perioperative treatment of these critically ill patients led us to review and discuss our understanding of the metabolic response to the inflammatory burst induced by cardiac surgery. In addition, we discuss how to identify patients who may benefit from nutrition therapy, when to start nutritional interventions, present evidence about the use of enteral and parenteral nutrition and the potential role of pharmaconutrition in cardiac surgery patients. Although the clinical setting of cardiac surgery provides advantages due to its scheduled insult and predictable inflammatory response, researchers and clinicians face lack of evidence and several limitations in the clinical routine, which are critically considered and discussed in this paper.

Comparison of trace element levels after cardiopulmonary bypass between cyanotic and acyanotic patients

Trace elements are essential micronutrients for the human body. In this study, we evaluated the alterations in copper, chromium, manganese, selenium, magnesium, zinc, iron, arsenic, boron, and silicon levels in children with cyanotic and acyanotic CHD who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Participants were divided into the following three groups: patients acyanotic CHDs (n=34), patients with cyanotic CHDs (n=30), and healthy controls (n=30). Blood samples were collected before the surgery and 1 hour after the sternum was closed. Serum trace elements were determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer-ICAP 6000. The baseline serum arsenic, manganese, and zinc levels of both patient groups were lower compared with controls, but there was no significant difference between baseline serum trace element levels of cyanotic and acyanotic patients. In both the patient groups, there was a significant decrease in postoperative serum arsenic, boron, copper, and zinc levels, and a significant increase in postoperative serum iron and magnesium levels. Silicon levels increased in cyanotic patients. Alterations in trace element levels were in the same direction in cyanotic and acyanotic patients. Copper, zinc, and manganase replacement may be needed after on-pump cardiac surgery.

Effect of high-dose sodium selenite in cardiac surgery patients: A randomized controlled bi-center trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Cardiac surgery is accompanied by oxidative stress and systemic inflammatory response, which may be associated with organ dysfunction and increased mortality. Selenium and selenoenzymes are important constituents of anti-oxidative defense. We hypothesized that high-dose sodium selenite supplementation can attenuate the postoperative inflammation and might, therefore, improve clinical outcome.

METHODS

Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, bi-center study on 411 adult patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Patients received an intravenous bolus of 4000 μg selenium (in the form of sodium selenite) or placebo after induction of anesthesia and 1000 μg/d selenium or placebo during their intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Primary outcome measure was the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score on the second postoperative day. Secondary endpoints included the change in perioperative selenium levels, change of inflammatory and cardiac markers, use of vasoactive medication, incidence of acute kidney injury, ICU and hospital length of stay, and mortality.

RESULTS

The perioperative administration of high-dose sodium selenite prevented the postoperative drop of blood and serum selenium levels, reduced the number of patients depending on postoperative vasoactive support but failed to reduce the postoperative SOFA score and its related organ-specific scores compared to placebo. Except for an increase of postoperative procalcitonin and bilirubin levels in the sodium selenite group, other inflammatory markers, organ function variables and clinical endpoints remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

The perioperative administration of high-dose sodium selenite in cardiac surgery patients prevented the postoperative fall of blood selenium levels and reduced the need for postoperative vasoactive support by a yet unknown mechanism.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered under ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier no. NCT01141556.

Selenium Pretreatment for Mitigation of Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Cardiovascular Surgery: Influence on Acute Organ Damage and Inflammatory Response

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) contributes to morbidity and mortality after cardiovascular surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA). Multi-organ damage is associated with substantial decreases of blood selenium (Se) levels in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB. We compared the influence of a dietary surplus of Se and pretreatment with ebselen, a mimic of the selenoenzyme glutathione peroxidase, on IRI-induced tissue damage and inflammation. Male Wistar rats were fed either a Se-adequate diet containing 0.3 ppm Se or supplemented with 1 ppm Se (as sodium selenite) for 5 weeks. Two other groups of Se-adequate rats received intraperitoneal injection of ebselen (30 mg/kg) or DMSO (solvent control) before surgery. The animals were connected to a heart-lung-machine and underwent 45 min of global ischemia during circulatory arrest at 16 °C, followed by re-warming and reperfusion. Selenite and ebselen suppressed IRI-induced leukocytosis and the increase in plasma levels of tissue damage markers (AST, ALT, LDH, troponin) during surgery but did not prevent the induction of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α). Both Se compounds affected phosphorylation and expression of proteins related to stress response and inflammation: Ebselen increased phosphorylation of STAT3 transcription factor in the heart and decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 MAP kinases in the lungs. Selenite decreased ERK1/2 phosphorylation and HSP-70 expression in the heart. Pretreatment with selenite or ebselen protected against acute IRI-induced tissue damage during CPB and DHCA. Potential implications of their different actions with regard to molecular stress markers on the recovery after surgery represent promising targets for further investigation.

Effect of Selenium on Stress Response in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Clinical Trial

Background

In spite of significant improvements in surgical and anesthetic techniques, acute stress response to surgery remains a main cause of mortality and morbidity in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery patients. Therefore, doing research to find safe and effective modalities with more cardio protective properties seems necessary.

Objectives

In this study, we sought to determine whether intravenous injection of 600 μg Selenium (Se) prior to surgery would limit stress response measured by blood sugar.

Methods

This double blind clinical trial was conducted at a referral center of cardiac surgery affiliated to Guilan University of Medical Sciences (GUMS) from June 2015 to October 2015. 73 eligible patients candidate for elective isolated CABG surgery were enrolled in the trial. They were randomly allocated to either Se group (n = 36) receiving 600 μg Se prior to surgery or control group (n = 37). Our evaluation was based on blood sugar (BS) which was measured at four point times, including before induction of anesthesia (T0), at the end of CPB (T1), 24 hours (T2) and 48 hours (T3) after surgery.

Results

The data obtained from 73 patients in group S (n = 36) and group C (n = 37) were analyzed. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the baseline characteristics. In both groups, a sharp rise in BS levels was observed following CPB (P = 0.0001). Although the trend of BS changes was remarkable in both groups (P = 0.0001), there was no statistically significant difference between the groups at all point times including T0 (P = 0.45), T1 (P = 0.48), T2 (P = 0.92), and T3 (P = 0.42). Within the study time, our patients were monitored for any adverse effect but nothing was observed.

Conclusions

This investigation showed that intravenous single dose of 600 μg Se was safe in CABG patients, but had no positive effect on stress response to surgery.

High-dose intravenous selenium does not improve clinical outcomes in the critically ill: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. So far, several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that parenteral Se may improve clinical outcomes in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Since publication of our previous systematic review and meta-analysis on antioxidants in the ICU, reports of several trials have been published, including the largest RCT on Se therapy. The purpose of the present systematic review was to update our previous data on intravenous (IV) Se in the critically ill.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We included RCTs with parallel groups comparing parenteral Se as single or combined therapy with placebo. Potential trials were evaluated according to specific eligibility criteria, and two reviewers abstracted data from original trials in duplicate independently. Overall mortality was the primary outcome; secondary outcomes were infections, ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, ventilator days, and new renal dysfunction.

Results

A total of 21 RCTs met our inclusion criteria. When the data from these trials were aggregated, IV Se had no effect on mortality (risk ratio [RR] 0.98, 95 % CI 0.90–1.08, P = 0.72, heterogeneity I² = 0 %). In addition, when the results of ten trials in which researchers reported on infections were statistically aggregated, there was no significant treatment effect of parenteral Se (RR 0.95, 95 % CI 0.88–1.02, P = 0.15, I² = 0 %). There was no positive or negative effect of Se therapy on ICU and hospital LOS, renal function, or ventilator days.

Conclusions

In critically ill patients, IV Se as monotherapy does not improve clinical outcomes.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13054-016-1529-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Effects of Low-dose Selenium on the Inflammatory Response in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Clinical Trial

Background

Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) triggers an inflammatory reaction, leading to the development of myocardial damage and dysfunction. It is suggested that selenium (Se), an essential trace element, has a protective role against oxidative stress. Decreased intraoperative Se levels might be an independent predictive factor for postoperative multiorgan failure. In spite of its proposed advantages, however, the optimal timing and dosage are not well known.

Objectives

To determine whether 600 µg of intravenous Se administration before induction of anesthesia for CABG surgery could attenuate inflammatory reactions in an Iranian population.

Methods

This randomized triple-blind clinical trial took place in the department of cardiac surgery of an academic hospital affiliated with Guilan University of Medical Sciences (GUMS) from May 2015 to September 2015. Eighty-eight eligible patients scheduled for elective on-pump CABG surgery were divided into two groups using randomized fixed quadripartite blocks. They received either an intravenous bolus of 600 µg Se before induction of anesthesia, or normal saline as a placebo. We had four measurement time-points: just before induction of anesthesia (T0), immediately after the end of CPB (T1), 24 hours after surgery (T2), and 48 hours after surgery (T3). Interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Data from a total of 81 patients were analyzed: group S (n = 41) and group C (n = 40). There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to baseline characteristics. In both groups, CPB caused markedly increased IL-6, TNF-α, and CRP plasma concentrations compared with baseline (P = 0.0001). However, the pattern of changes was not significantly different between group S (P = 0.068) and group C (P = 0.26). The IL-6 and TNF-α change trends were significant in each group (P=0.0001). However, comparing the two groups showed no significant difference. With regard to IL-6, there was no significant difference between the two groups at the time-points of T1 (P = 0.34), T2 (P = 0.17), and T3 (P = 0.056), and the same was found for TNF-α at T1 (P = 0.34), T2 (P = 0.17), and T3 (P = 0.056). With regard to CRP, the trend of the changes was significant in each group (P = 0.0001). However, comparing two groups showed a borderline significant difference between them at T1 (P = 0.039), but not at T2 (P = 0.075) or T3 (P = 0.11).

Conclusions

This study revealed that the administration of 600 μg of intravenous Se immediately before induction of anesthesia was safe, but when compared to a placebo, no predominant clinical effects or modifications in the systemic inflammatory response induced by on-pump CABG were observed.

Interaction of MIF Family Proteins in Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Damage and Their Influence on Clinical Outcome of Cardiac Surgery Patients

AIMS

Cardiac surgery involves myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) with potentially deleterious consequences. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a stress-regulating chemokine-like cytokine that protects against I/R damage, but functional links with its homolog, d-dopachrome tautomerase (MIF-2), and the circulating soluble receptor CD74 (sCD74) are unknown. In this study, we investigate the role of MIF, MIF-2, sCD74, and MIF genotypes in patients scheduled for elective single or complex surgical procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting or valve replacement.

RESULTS

MIF and MIF-2 levels significantly increased intraoperatively, whereas measured sCD74 decreased correspondingly. Circulating sCD74/MIF complexes were detectable in 50% of patients and enhanced MIF antioxidant activity. Intraoperative MIF levels were independently associated with a reduced risk for the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) (odds ratio 0.99 [0.98-1.00]; p=0.007). Circulating levels of MIF-2, but not MIF, were associated with an increased frequency of organ dysfunction and predicted the occurrence of AF (area under the curve [AUC]=0.663; p=0.041) and pneumonia (AUC=0.708; p=0.040). Patients with a high-expression MIF genotype exhibited a reduced incidence of organ dysfunction compared with patients with low-expression MIF genotypes (3 vs. 25; p=0.042).

INNOVATION

The current study comprehensively highlights the kinetics and clinical relevance of MIF family proteins and the MIF genotype in cardiac surgery patients.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that increased MIF levels during cardiac surgery feature organ-protective properties during myocardial I/R, while the soluble MIF receptor, sCD74, may enhance MIF antioxidant activity. In contrast, high MIF-2 levels are predictive of the development of organ dysfunction. Importantly, we provide first evidence for a gene-phenotype relationship between variant MIF alleles and clinical outcome in cardiac surgery patients.

Selenium and its supplementation in cardiovascular disease--what do we know?

The trace element selenium is of high importance for many of the body’s regulatory and metabolic functions. Balanced selenium levels are essential, whereas dysregulation can cause harm. A rapidly increasing number of studies characterizes the wide range of selenium dependent functions in the human body and elucidates the complex and multiple physiological and pathophysiological interactions of selenium and selenoproteins. For the majority of selenium dependent enzymes, several biological functions have already been identified, like regulation of the inflammatory response, antioxidant properties and the proliferation/differentiation of immune cells. Although the potential role of selenium in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease has been investigated for decades, both observational and interventional studies of selenium supplementation remain inconclusive and are considered in this review. This review covers current knowledge of the role of selenium and selenoproteins in the human body and its functional role in the cardiovascular system. The relationships between selenium intake/status and various health outcomes, in particular cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia/infarction and reperfusion injury are reviewed. We describe, in depth, selenium as a biomarker in coronary heart disease and highlight the significance of selenium supplementation for patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

The impact of acute lung injury, ECMO and transfusion on oxidative stress and plasma selenium levels in an ovine model

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of smoke induced acute lung injury (S-ALI), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and transfusion on oxidative stress and plasma selenium levels. Forty ewes were divided into (i) healthy control (n=4), (ii) S-ALI control (n=7), (iii) ECMO control (n=7), (iv) S-ALI+ECMO (n=8) and (v) S-ALI+ECMO+packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion (n=14). Plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), selenium and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity were analysed at baseline, after smoke injury (or sham) and 0.25, 1, 2, 6, 7, 12 and 24h after initiation of ECMO. Peak TBARS levels were similar across all groups. Plasma selenium decreased by 54% in S-ALI sheep (1.36±0.20 to 0.63±0.27μmol/L, p<0.0001), and 72% in sheep with S-ALI+ECMO at 24h (1.36±0.20 to 0.38±0.19, p<0.0001). PRBC transfusion had no effect on TBARS, selenium levels or glutathione peroxidase activity in plasma. While ECMO independently increased TBARS in healthy sheep to levels which were similar to the S-ALI control, the addition of ECMO after S-ALI caused a negligible increase in TBARS. This suggests that the initial lung injury was the predominant feature in the TBARS response. In contrast, the addition of ECMO in S-ALI sheep exacerbated reductions in plasma selenium beyond that of S-ALI or ECMO alone. Clinical studies are needed to confirm the extent and duration of selenium loss associated with ECMO.

A review of dietary selenium intake and selenium status in Europe and the Middle East

This is a systematic review of existing data on dietary selenium (Se) intake and status for various population groups in Europe (including the United Kingdom (UK)) and the Middle East. It includes English language systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional and case-control studies obtained through PUBMED searches from January, 2002, to November, 2014, for European data and from 1990 to November 2014, for Middle Eastern data. Reports were selected if they included data on Se intake and status. The search identified 19 European/UK studies and 15 investigations in the Middle East that reported Se intake and Se concentration in water and/or food and 48 European/UK studies and 44 investigations in the Middle East reporting Se status. Suboptimal Se status was reported to be widespread throughout Europe, the UK and the Middle East, and these results agreed with previous reports highlighting the problem. Eastern European countries had lower Se intake than Western European countries. Middle Eastern studies provided varying results, possibly due to varying food habits and imports in different regions and within differing socioeconomic groups. In conclusion, Se intake and status is suboptimal in European and Middle Eastern countries, with less consistency in the Middle East.

Selenium prevents microparticle-induced endothelial inflammation in patients after cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Introduction

Microparticles are elevated in patients after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and may play a role in the development of endothelial dysfunction seen in post-cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS), a life threatening disease with high mortality. To identify mechanisms of endothelial activation and to develop novel approaches in the therapy of PCAS, the impact of selenium, a trace element with antioxidative properties, was characterized in endothelial dysfunction induced by microparticles of resuscitated patients. Additionally, course of plasma selenium levels was characterized in the first 72 hours post-CPR.

Methods

Endothelial cells were exposed to microparticles isolated of the peripheral blood of resuscitated patients, and leukocyte-endothelial interaction was measured by dynamic adhesion assay. Expression of adhesion molecules was assessed by immunoblotting and flow chamber. Blood samples were drawn 24, 48 and 72 hours after CPR for determination of plasma selenium levels in 77 resuscitated patients; these were compared to 50 healthy subjects and 50 patients with stable cardiac disease and correlated with severity of illness and outcome.

Results

Microparticles of resuscitated patients enhance monocyte-endothelial interaction by up-regulation of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Selenium administration diminished ICAM-1 and VCAM-1-mediated monocyte adhesion induced by microparticles of resuscitated patients, suggesting that selenium has anti-inflammatory effects after CPR. Lowered selenium plasma levels were observed in resuscitated patients compared to controls and selenium levels immediately and 24 hours after CPR, inversely correlated with clinical course and outcome after resuscitation.

Conclusions

Endothelial dysfunction is a pivotal feature of PCAS and is partly driven by microparticles of resuscitated patients. Administration of selenium exerted anti-inflammatory effects and prevented microparticle-mediated endothelial dysfunction. Decline of selenium was observed in plasma of patients after CPR and is a novel predictive marker of ICU mortality, suggesting selenium consumption promotes inflammation in PCAS.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13054-015-0774-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Selenium and coenzyme Q10 interrelationship in cardiovascular diseases--A clinician's point of view

A short review is given of the potential role of selenium deficiency and selenium intervention trials in atherosclerotic heart disease. Selenium is an essential constituent of several proteins, including the glutathione peroxidases and selenoprotein P. The selenium intake in Europe is generally in the lower margin of recommendations from authorities. Segments of populations in Europe may thus have a deficient intake that may be presented by a deficient anti-oxidative capacity in various illnesses, in particular atherosclerotic disease, and this may influence the prognosis of the disease. Ischemic heart disease and heart failure are two conditions where increased oxidative stress has been convincingly demonstrated. Some of the intervention studies of anti-oxidative substances that have focused on selenium are discussed in this review. The interrelationship between selenium and coenzyme Q10, another anti-oxidant, is presented, pointing to a theoretical advantage in using both substances in an intervention if there are deficiencies within the population. Clinical results from an intervention study using both selenium and coenzyme Q10 in an elderly population are discussed, where reduction in cardiovascular mortality, a better cardiac function according to echocardiography, and finally a lower concentration of the biomarker NT-proBNP as a sign of lower myocardial wall tension could be seen in those on active treatment, compared to placebo.

Pharmaconutrition with selenium in critically ill patients: what do we know?

Selenium is a component of selenoproteins with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), multiorgan dysfunction (MOD), and multiorgan failure (MOF) are associated with an early reduction in plasma selenium and glutathione peroxidase activity (GPx), and both parameters correlate inversely with the severity of illness and outcomes. Several randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluated selenium therapy as monotherapy or in antioxidant cocktails in intensive care unit (ICU) patient populations, and more recently several meta-analyses suggested benefits with selenium therapy in the most seriously ill patients. However, the largest RCT on pharmaconutrition with glutamine and antioxidants, the REducing Deaths due to Oxidative Stress (REDOXS) Study, was unable to find any improvement in clinical outcomes with antioxidants provided by the enteral and parenteral route and suggested harm in patients with renal dysfunction. Subsequently, the MetaPlus study demonstrated increased mortality in medical patients when provided extra glutamine and selenium enterally. The treatment effect of selenium may be dependent on the dose, the route of administration, and whether administered with other nutrients and the patient population studied. Currently, there are few small studies evaluating the pharmacokinetic profile of intravenous (IV) selenium in SIRS, and therefore more data are necessary, particularly in patients with MOD, including those with renal dysfunction. According to current knowledge, high-dose pentahydrate sodium selenite could be given as an IV bolus injection (1000-2000 µg), which causes transient pro-oxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory effects, and then followed by a continuous infusion of 1000-1600 µg/d for up to 10-14 days. Nonetheless, the optimum dose and efficacy still remain controversial and need to be definitively established.

SodiUm SeleniTe Adminstration IN Cardiac Surgery (SUSTAIN CSX-trial): study design of an international multicenter randomized double-blinded controlled trial of high dose sodium-selenite administration in high-risk cardiac surgical patients

Background

Cardiac surgery has been shown to result in a significant decrease of the antioxidant selenium, which is associated with the development of multiorgan dysfunction and increased mortality. Thus, a large-scale study is needed to investigate the effect of perioperative selenium supplementation on the occurrence of postoperative organ dysfunction.

Methods/Design

We plan a prospective, randomized double-blind, multicenter controlled trial, which will be conducted in North and South America and in Europe. In this trial we will include 1,400 high-risk patients, who are most likely to benefit from selenium supplementation. This includes patients scheduled for non-emergent combined and/or complex procedures, or with a predicted operative mortality of ≥5% according to the EuroSCORE II. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to either the treatment group (bolus infusion of 2,000 μg sodium selenite immediately prior to surgery, followed by an additional dosage of 2,000 μg at ICU admission, and a further daily supplementation of 1,000 μg up to 10 days or ICU discharge) or to the control group (placebo administration at the same time points).

The primary endpoint of this study is a composite of 'persistent organ dysfunction’ (POD) and/or death within 30 days from surgery (POD + death). POD is defined as any need for life-sustaining therapies (mechanical ventilation, vasopressor therapy, mechanical circulatory support, continuous renal replacement therapy, or new intermittent hemodialysis) at any time within 30 days from surgery.

Discussion

The SUSTAIN-CSX™ study is a multicenter trial to investigate the effect of a perioperative high dosage sodium selenite supplementation in high-risk cardiac surgical patients.

Trial registration

This trial was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (identifier: NCT02002247) on 28 November 2013.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1745-6215-15-339) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The importance of intraoperative selenium blood levels on organ dysfunction in patients undergoing off-pump cardiac surgery: a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac surgery is accompanied by an increase of oxidative stress, a significantly reduced antioxidant (AOX) capacity, postoperative inflammation, all of which may promote the development of organ dysfunction and an increase in mortality. Selenium is an essential co-factor of various antioxidant enzymes. We hypothesized a less pronounced decrease of circulating selenium levels in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) surgery due to less intraoperative oxidative stress.

METHODS

In this prospective randomised, interventional trial, 40 patients scheduled for elective coronary artery bypass grafting were randomly assigned to undergo either on-pump or OPCAB-surgery, if both techniques were feasible for the single patient. Clinical data, myocardial damage assessed by myocard specific creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), circulating whole blood levels of selenium, oxidative stress assessed by asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels, antioxidant capacity determined by glutathionperoxidase (GPx) levels and perioperative inflammation represented by interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were measured at predefined perioperative time points.

RESULTS

At end of surgery, both groups showed a comparable decrease of circulating selenium concentrations. Likewise, levels of oxidative stress and IL-6 were comparable in both groups. Selenium levels correlated with antioxidant capacity (GPx: r = 0.720; p<0.001) and showed a negative correlation to myocardial damage (CK-MB: r =  -0.571, p<0.001). Low postoperative selenium levels had a high predictive value for the occurrence of any postoperative complication.

CONCLUSIONS

OPCAB surgery is not associated with less oxidative stress and a better preservation of the circulating selenium pool than on-pump surgery. Low postoperative selenium levels are predictive for the development of complications.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01409057.

Low plasma selenium concentrations in critically ill children: the interaction effect between inflammation and selenium deficiency

Introduction

Low plasma selenium concentrations are frequent in critically ill patients. However, whether this is due to systemic inflammation, a deficient nutritional state or both is still not clear. We aimed to determine the factors associated with low plasma selenium in critically ill children while considering the inflammatory response and nutritional status.

Method

A prospective study was conducted in 173 children (median age 34 months) with systemic inflammatory response who had plasma selenium concentrations assessed 48 hours after admission and on the 5th day of ICU stay. The normal reference range was 0.58 μmol/L to 1.6 μmol/L. The outcome variable was ‘low plasma selenium’, which was defined as plasma selenium values below the distribution median during this period. The main explanatory variables were age, malnutrition, sepsis, C-reactive protein (CRP), and clinical severity scores. The data were analyzed using a Binomial Generalized Estimating Equations model, which includes the correlation between admission and 5th day responses.

Results

Malnutrition and CRP were associated with low plasma selenium. The interaction effect between these two variables was significant. When CRP values were less than or equal to 40 mg/L, malnutrition was associated with low plasma selenium levels (odds ratio (OR) = 3.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39 to 7.63, P = 0.007; OR = 2.98, 95% CI 1.26 to 7.06, P = 0.013; OR = 2.49, 95% CI 1.01 to 6.17, P = 0.049, for CRP = 10, 20 and 40 mg/L, respectively). This effect decreased as CRP concentrations increased and there was loose significance when CRP values were >40 mg/L. Similarly, the effect of CRP on low plasma selenium was significant for well-nourished patients (OR = 1.13; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.22, P <0.001) but not for the malnourished (OR = 1.03; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.08, P = 0.16).

Conclusions

There is a significant interaction between the magnitude of the inflammatory response and malnutrition on low plasma selenium. This interaction should be considered when interpreting plasma concentrations as an index of selenium status in patients with systemic inflammation as well as in the decision on selenium supplementation.

[Significance of selenium in the pathogenesis and therapy of cardiovascular diseases and those requiring intensive care]

Selenium deficiency results in profound changes in cellular defence mechanisms against oxidative stress, which plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease and the associated risk factors. Increased formation and decreased elimination of reactive oxygen radicals contribute to the complicated mechanisms of sepsis and related disorders. Use of selenium in prevention and treatment of the above mentioned conditions is not a new idea, but controversial data were published in relation to both fields recently. The aim of the present review is to summarize the most important results related to this area.

Oxidative stress during extracorporeal circulation

There is an increased oxidative stress response in patients having cardiac surgery, haemodialysis or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation that is related to poorer outcomes and increased mortality. Exposure of the patients' blood to the artificial surfaces of these extracorporeal devices, coupled with inflammatory responses, hyperoxia and the pathophysiological aspects of the underlying illness itself, all contribute to this oxidative stress response. Oxidative stress occurs when there is a disruption of redox signalling and loss of control of redox balance. Ongoing oxidative stress occurring during extracorporeal circulation (ECC) results in damage to lipids, proteins and DNA and contributes to morbidity and mortality. This review discusses reactive species generation and the potential clinical consequences of oxidative stress during ECC as well as provides an overview of some current antioxidant compounds that are available to potentially mitigate the oxidative stress response.

Serum selenium and zinc levels in critically ill surgical patients

PURPOSE

The authors designed this study to determine how serum selenium and zinc affect the outcomes of critically ill surgical patients.

METHODS

The medical records of 162 patients admitted to a surgical intensive care unit (ICU) from October 2010 to July 2012 and managed for more than 3 days were retrospectively investigated.

RESULTS

Overall, the mean patient age was 61.2 ± 15.0 years, and the median ICU stay was 5 (3-115) days. The mean Acute Physiologic and Chronic Health Evaluation II score was 18.0 ± 8.0. Eighteen (11.1%) of the study subjects died in ICU. mean selenium levels were 83.5 ± 23.8 ng/dL in the survivor group and 83.3 ± 29.6 ng/dL in the nonsurvivor group, and corresponding mean zinc levels were 46.3 ± 21.7 and 65.6 ± 41.6 μg/dL, respectively. Mean selenium concentrations were significantly different in patients with and without shock (77.9 ± 25.4 and 87.2 ± 23.1 ng/dL, P = .017). Furthermore, mean serum selenium was lower in patients with sepsis than in traumatic or simply postoperative patients (P < .001 and P = .038). Serum Zn was significantly lower in patients with sepsis than in patients with trauma (43.4 ± 25.4 μg/dL vs 54.8 ± 28.1 μg/dL, P = .038).

CONCLUSIONS

To determine the effects of serum selenium and zinc levels on critically ill surgical patients, a large-scale prospective study is needed.

Update on antioxidant micronutrients in the critically ill

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To evaluate recent evidence on pharmaconutrition with antioxidant micronutrients, for different populations of adult critically ill patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Over the last few years, different studies have shown that high-dose trace elements and vitamins, especially parenteral selenium and zinc, may be able to improve relevant clinical outcomes in the most seriously ill patients. High-dose selenite monotherapy reduces mortality, particularly when a pharmacological loading dose is given in the early stage of severe sepsis and septic shock. Notwithstanding, the recently published REducing Deaths due to OXidative Stress study using an antioxidant cocktail and parenteral selenite, in addition to standard enteral nutrition, was unable to show any benefits for patients with multiple organ failure.

SUMMARY

There is evidence supporting the concept of pharmaconutrition with high-dose micronutrients. Selenium therapy may be able to decrease infections and reduce mortality in sepsis, but more research is needed to better understand pharmacokinetics, optimal composition, timing, duration, and dose of antioxidant cocktails for the critically ill.