Antioxidant capacities of the selenium nanoparticles stabilized by chitosan

Geographical traceability of flavor compounds in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis): Implications for quality differentiation, authenticity assessment, and mechanism research

Geographical traceability plays a crucial role in ensuring quality assurance, brand establishment, and the sustainable development of the crab industry. In this study, we examined the possibility of using gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry with multivariate statistical authenticity analysis to identify the origin of crabs from five sites downstream of the Yangtze River. Significant variations were observed in the levels of alcoholic flavor compounds in the hepatopancreas and muscles of crabs from different geographical locations, and a support vector machine exhibited discriminant ability with 100% accuracy. These flavor variations exhibited significant correlations with the types and concentrations of elements within the crabs, as well as with free amino acids. This study offers a practical approach for determining the geographical traceability of Chinese mitten crabs and elucidates the role of elements in flavor modulation, thereby providing innovative strategies to enhance the efficiency of crab farming.

Thiolated chitosan nanoparticles encapsulated nisin and selenium: antimicrobial/antibiofilm/anti-attachment/immunomodulatory multi-functional agent

BACKGROUND

The increase in the resistance of bacterial strains to antibiotics has led to research into the bactericidal potential of non-antibiotic compounds. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro antibacterial/ antibiofilm properties of nisin and selenium encapsulated in thiolated chitosan nanoparticles (N/Se@TCsNPs) against prevalent enteric pathogens including standard isolates of Vibrio (V.) cholerae O1 El Tor ATCC 14,035, Campylobacter (C.) jejuni ATCC 29,428, Salmonella (S.) enterica subsp. enterica ATCC 19,430, Shigella (S.) dysenteriae PTCC 1188, Escherichia (E.) coli O157:H7 ATCC 25,922, Listeria (L.) monocytogenes ATCC 19,115, and Staphylococcus (S.) aureus ATCC 29,733.

METHODS

The synthesis and comprehensive analysis of N/Se@TCsNPs have been completed. Antibacterial and antibiofilm capabilities of N/Se@TCsNPs were evaluated through broth microdilution and crystal violet assays. Furthermore, the study included examining the cytotoxic effects on Caco-2 cells and exploring the immunomodulatory effects of N/Se@TCsNPs. This included assessing the levels of both pro-inflammatory (IL-6 and TNFα) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10 and TGFβ) cytokines and determining the gene expression of TLR2 and TLR4.

RESULTS

The N/Se@TCsNPs showed an average diameter of 136.26 ± 43.17 nm and a zeta potential of 0.27 ± 0.07 mV. FTIR spectroscopy validated the structural features of N/Se@TCsNPs. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed their spherical shape and uniform distribution. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA)/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) tests demonstrated the thermal stability of N/Se@TCsNPs, showing minimal weight loss of 0.03%±0.06 up to 80 °C. The prepared N/Se@TCsNPs showed a thiol content of 512.66 ± 7.33 µmol/g (p < 0.05), an encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 69.83%±0.04 (p ≤ 0.001), and a drug release rate of 74.32%±3.45 at pH = 7.2 (p ≤ 0.004). The synthesized nanostructure demonstrated potent antibacterial activity against various isolates, with effective concentrations ranging from 1.5 ± 0.08 to 25 ± 4.04 mg/mL. The ability of N/Se@TCsNPs to reduce bacterial adhesion and internalization in Caco-2 cells underscored their antibiofilm properties (p ≤ 0.0001). Immunological studies indicated that treatment with N/Se@TCsNPs led to decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-6 (14.33 ± 2.33 pg/mL) and TNFα (25 ± 0.5 pg/mL) (p ≤ 0.0001), alongside increased levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 (46.00 ± 0.57 pg/mL) and TGFβ (42.58 ± 2.10 pg/mL) in infected Caco-2 cells (p ≤ 0.0001). Moreover, N/Se@TCsNPs significantly reduced the expression of TLR2 (0.22 ± 0.09) and TLR4 (0.16 ± 0.05) (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, N/Se@TCsNPs exhibited significant antibacterial/antibiofilm/anti-attachment/immunomodulatory effectiveness against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative enteric pathogens. However, additional ex-vivo and in-vivo investigations are needed to fully assess the performance of nanostructured N/Se@TCsNPs.

Synergetic effects and inhibition mechanisms of the polysaccharide-selenium nanoparticle complex in human hepatocarcinoma cell proliferation

BACKGROUND

Active components from natural fungal products have shown promising potential as anti-tumor therapeutic agents. In the search for anti-tumor agents, research to overcome the drawbacks of high molecular weight and low bioavailability of pure polysaccharides, polysaccharide-conjugated selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) has attracted much attention.

RESULTS

A novel polysaccharide-selenium nanoparticle complex was produced, in which SeNPs were decorated with polysaccharide obtained from fermented mycelia broth of Lactarius deliciosus (FLDP). Transmission electron microscope, dynamic light scattering, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were utilized to characterize the FLDP-SeNPs; and human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2) was used to assess growth inhibition efficacy. The FLDP-SeNPs that were prepared had a spherical shape with the smallest mean diameter of 32 nm. The FLDP-SeNPs showed satisfactory dispersibility and stability after combination, demonstrating that a reliable consolidated structure had formed. The results revealed that FLDP-SeNPs had notable growth inhibition effects on HepG2 cells. They reduced the membrane potential of mitochondria significantly, increased the generation of reactive oxygen species, enhanced levels of both Caspase-3 and Caspase-9, and led to the nucleus in a wrinkled form.

CONCLUSION

The FLDP-SeNPs could exert a synergetic toxicity reduction and inhibition enhancement effect on HepG2 cells by inducing early apoptosis, through mitochondria-mediated cytochrome C-Caspases and reactive oxygen species-induced DNA damage pathways. These results indicate that FLDP-SeNP treatment of HepG2 cells induced early apoptosis with synergetic efficacy, showing that FLDP-SeNPs can be useful as natural anti-tumor agents. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Biochemical characterization of immobilized recombinant subtilisin and synthesis and functional characterization of recombinant subtilisin capped silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles

This pioneering research explores the transformative potential of recombinant subtilisin, emphasizing its strategic immobilization and nanoparticle synthesis to elevate both stability and therapeutic efficacy. Achieving an impressive 95.25 % immobilization yield with 3 % alginate composed of sodium along with 0.2 M CaCl2 indicates heightened pH levels and thermal resistance, with optimal action around pH 10 as well as 80 °C temperature. Notably, the Ca-alginate-immobilized subtilisin exhibits exceptional storage longevity and recyclability, affirming its practical viability. Comprehensive analyses of the recombinant subtilisin under diverse conditions underscore its adaptability, reflected in kinetic enhancements with increased Vmax (10.7 ± 15 × 103 U/mg) and decreased Km (0.19 ± 0.3 mM) values post-immobilization using N-Suc-F-A-A-F-pNA. UV-visible spectroscopy confirms the successful capping of nanoparticles made of Ag and ZnO by recombinant subtilisin, imparting profound antibacterial efficacy against diverse organisms and compelling antioxidant properties. Cytotoxicity was detected against the MCF-7 breast cancer line of cells, exhibiting IC50 concentrations at 8.87 as well as 14.52 µg/mL of AgNP as well as ZnONP, correspondingly, indicating promising anticancer potential. Rigorous characterization, including FTIR, SEM-EDS, TGA and AFM robustly validate the properties of the capped nanoparticles. Beyond therapeutic implications, the investigation explores industrial applications, revealing the versatility of recombinant subtilisin in dehairing, blood clot dissolution, biosurfactant activity, and blood stain removal. In summary, this research unfolds the exceptional promise of recombinant subtilisin and its nanoparticles, presenting compelling opportunities for diverse therapeutic applications in medicine. These findings contribute substantively to biotechnology and healthcare and stimulate avenues for further innovation and exploration.

Molecular Mechanisms of the Therapeutic Effect of Selenium Nanoparticles in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

This review describes and summarizes, for the first time, the molecular mechanisms of the cytotoxic effect of selenium nanoparticles of various origins on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The text provides information from recent years indicating the regulation of various signaling pathways and endoplasmic reticulum stress by selenium nanoparticles; the pathways of cell death of liver cancer cells as a result of exposure to selenium nanoparticles are considered. Particular attention is paid to the participation of selenoproteins and selenium-containing thioredoxin reductases and glutathione peroxidases in these processes. Previously, there were no reviews that fully reflected the cytotoxic effects of selenium nanoparticles specifically in hepatocellular carcinoma, despite the fact that many reviews and experimental articles have been devoted to the causes of this disease and the molecular mechanisms of regulation of cytotoxic effects by other agents. The relevance of this review is primarily explained by the fact that despite the development of various drugs and approaches for the treatment and prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma, this disease is still the fourth leading cause of death in the world. For this reason, a complete understanding of the latest trends in the treatment of oncology of various etiologies, especially hepatocellular carcinoma, is extremely important.

Selenium Nanoparticles as Neuroprotective Agents: Insights into Molecular Mechanisms for Parkinson's Disease Treatment

Oxidative stress and the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the brain are the main causes of Parkinson's disease (PD). Several nanoparticles have been used as therapeutics for PD. Despite their therapeutic potential, these nanoparticles induce multiple stresses upon entry. Selenium (Se), an essential nutrient in the human body, helps in DNA formation, stress control, and cell protection from damage and infections. It can also regulate thyroid hormone metabolism, reduce brain damage, boost immunity, and promote reproductive health. Selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs), a bioactive substance, have been employed as treatments in several disciplines, particularly as antioxidants. Se-NP, whether functionalized or not, can protect mitochondria by enhancing levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging enzymes in the brain. They can also promote dopamine synthesis. By inhibiting the aggregation of tau, α-synuclein, and/or Aβ, they can reduce the cellular toxicities. The ability of the blood-brain barrier to absorb Se-NPs which maintain a healthy microenvironment is essential for brain homeostasis. This review focuses on stress-induced neurodegeneration and its critical control using Se-NP. Due to its ability to inhibit cellular stress and the pathophysiologies of PD, Se-NP is a promising neuroprotector with its anti-inflammatory, non-toxic, and antimicrobial properties.

Revolutionizing Stroke Care: Nanotechnology-Based Brain Delivery as a Novel Paradigm for Treatment and Diagnosis

Stroke, a severe medical condition arising from abnormalities in the coagulation-fibrinolysis cycle and metabolic processes, results in brain cell impairment and injury due to blood flow obstruction within the brain. Prompt and efficient therapeutic approaches are imperative to control and preserve brain functions. Conventional stroke medications, including fibrinolytic agents, play a crucial role in facilitating reperfusion to the ischemic brain. However, their clinical efficacy is hampered by short plasma half-lives, limited brain tissue distribution attributed to the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and lack of targeted drug delivery to the ischemic region. To address these challenges, diverse nanomedicine strategies, such as vesicular systems, polymeric nanoparticles, dendrimers, exosomes, inorganic nanoparticles, and biomimetic nanoparticles, have emerged. These platforms enhance drug pharmacokinetics by facilitating targeted drug accumulation at the ischemic site. By leveraging nanocarriers, engineered drug delivery systems hold the potential to overcome challenges associated with conventional stroke medications. This comprehensive review explores the pathophysiological mechanism underlying stroke and BBB disruption in stroke. Additionally, this review investigates the utilization of nanocarriers for current therapeutic and diagnostic interventions in stroke management. By addressing these aspects, the review aims to provide insight into potential strategies for improving stroke treatment and diagnosis through a nanomedicine approach.

Recent advances in the therapeutic applications of selenium nanoparticles

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are an appealing carrier for the targeted delivery. The selenium nanoparticles are gaining global attention because of the potential therapeutic applications in several diseases e.g., rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, liver, and various autoimmune disorders like psoriasis, cancer, diabetes, and a variety of infectious diseases. Despite the fact still there is no recent literature that summarises the therapeutic applications of SeNPs. There are some challenges that need to be addressed like finding targets for SeNPs in various diseases, and the various functionalization techniques utilized to increase SeNP's stability while facilitating wide drug-loaded SeNP distribution to tumor areas and preventing off-target impacts need to focus on understanding more about the therapeutic aspects for better understanding the science behind it. Keeping that in mind we have focused on this gap and try to summarize all recent key targeted therapies for SeNPs in cancer treatment and the numerous functionalization strategies. We have also focused on recent advancements in SeNP functionalization methodologies and mechanisms for biomedical applications, particularly in anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infection therapeutics. Based on our observation we found that SeNPs could potentially be useful in suppressing viral epidemics, like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, in complement to their antibacterial and antiparasitic uses. SeNPs are significant nanoplatforms with numerous desirable properties for clinical translation.

Reactive oxygen species-scavenging nanomaterials for the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases

With increasing proportion of the elderly in the population, age-related diseases (ARD) lead to a considerable healthcare burden to society. Prevention and treatment of ARD can decrease the negative impact of aging and the burden of disease. The aging rate is closely associated with the production of high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS-mediated oxidative stress in aging triggers aging-related changes through lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA oxidation. Antioxidants can control autoxidation by scavenging free radicals or inhibiting their formation, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Benefiting from significant advances in nanotechnology, a large number of nanomaterials with ROS-scavenging capabilities have been developed. ROS-scavenging nanomaterials can be divided into two categories: nanomaterials as carriers for delivering ROS-scavenging drugs, and nanomaterials themselves with ROS-scavenging activity. This study summarizes the current advances in ROS-scavenging nanomaterials for prevention and treatment of ARD, highlights the potential mechanisms of the nanomaterials used and discusses the challenges and prospects for their applications.

Nanomaterials as Microglia Modulators in the Treatment of Central Nervous System Disorders

Microglia play a pivotal role in the central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis, acting as housekeepers and defenders of the surrounding environment. These cells can elicit their functions by shifting into two main phenotypes: pro-inflammatory classical phenotype, M1, and anti-inflammatory alternative phenotype, M2. Despite their pivotal role in CNS homeostasis, microglia phenotypes can influence the development and progression of several CNS disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, ischemic stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and even brain cancer. It is thus clear that the possibility of modulating microglia activation has gained attention as a therapeutic tool against many CNS pathologies. Nanomaterials are an unprecedented tool for manipulating microglia responses, in particular, to specifically target microglia and elicit an in situ immunomodulation activity. This review focuses the discussion on two main aspects: analyzing the possibility of using nanomaterials to stimulate a pro-inflammatory response of microglia against brain cancer and introducing nanostructures able to foster an anti-inflammatory response for treating neurodegenerative disorders. The final aim is to stimulate the analysis of the development of new microglia nano-immunomodulators, paving the way for innovative and effective therapeutic approaches for the treatment of CNS disorders.

Selenium-Chitosan Protects Porcine Endometrial Epithelial Cells from Zearalenone-induced Apoptosis via the JNK/SAPK Signaling Pathway

This study was designed to assess whether selenium-chitosan (Se-CTS) can protect porcine endometrial epithelial cells (PEECs) against damage and apoptosis induced by zearalenone (ZEA) via modulating the JNK/SAPK signaling pathway. The cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptosis rates of porcine endometrial epithelial cells were determined, as well as the expression levels of genes related to the SAPK/JNK signaling pathway. The results showed that 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS decreased the percentage of ZEA-induced G1 phase in PEECs (P < 0.01), whereas 1.5 and 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS increased the percentage of ZEA-induced percentage of G2 phase of PEECs (P < 0.01). Further, Se-CTS at 1.5 and 3.0 µmol/L improved the ZEA-induced decrease in MMP (P < 0.01), whereas Se-CTS at 0.5, 1.5, and 3.0 µmol/L reduced the increase in ROS levels and apoptosis rate induced by ZEA in PEECs (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). Furthermore, 3.0 µmol/L Se-CTS ameliorated the increase in the expression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), apoptosis signal-regulated kinase (ASK1), and c-Jun induced by ZEA (P < 0.01) and the reduction in mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK4) and protein 53 (p53) expression (P < 0.01), while 1.5 µmol/L Se-CTS improved the expression of ASK1 and c-Jun induced by ZEA (P < 0.05). The results proved that Se-CTS alleviates ZEA-induced cell cycle stagnation, cell mitochondrial damage, and cell apoptosis via decreasing ZEA-produced ROS and modulating the JNK/SAPK signaling pathway.

Chitosan coated selenium: A versatile nano-delivery system for molecular cargoes

The use of nanoscale delivery platforms holds tremendous potential to overcome the current limitations associated with the conventional delivery of genetic materials and hydrophobic compounds. Therefore, there is an imperative need to develop a suitable alternative nano-enabled delivery platform to overcome these limitations. This work reports the first one-step hydrothermal synthesis of chitosan functionalized selenium nanoparticles (Selenium-chitosan, SeNP) that are capable of serving as a versatile nanodelivery platform for different types of active ingredients. The chitosan functionalization modified the surface charge to allow the loading of active ingredients and improve biocompatibility. The effective loading of the SeNP was demonstrated using genetic material, a hydrophobic small molecule, and an antibiotic. Furthermore, the loading of active ingredients showed no detrimental effect on the specific properties (fluorescence and bactericidal) of the studied active ingredients. In vitro antimicrobial inhibitory studies exhibited good compatibility between the SeNP delivery platform and Penicillin G (Pen), resulting in a reduction of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) from 32 to 16 ppm. Confocal microscopy images showed the uptake of the SeNP by a macrophage cell line (J774A.1), demonstrating trackability and intracellular delivery of an active ingredient. In summary, the present work demonstrates the potential of SeNP as a suitable delivery platform for biomedical and agricultural applications.

Advancements in Regenerative Hydrogels in Skin Wound Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

This state-of-the-art review explores the emerging field of regenerative hydrogels and their profound impact on the treatment of skin wounds. Regenerative hydrogels, composed mainly of water-absorbing polymers, have garnered attention in wound healing, particularly for skin wounds. Their unique properties make them well suited for tissue regeneration. Notable benefits include excellent water retention, creating a crucially moist wound environment for optimal healing, and facilitating cell migration, and proliferation. Biocompatibility is a key feature, minimizing adverse reactions and promoting the natural healing process. Acting as a supportive scaffold for cell growth, hydrogels mimic the extracellular matrix, aiding the attachment and proliferation of cells like fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Engineered for controlled drug release, hydrogels enhance wound healing by promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and preventing infection. The demonstrated acceleration of the wound healing process, particularly beneficial for chronic or impaired healing wounds, adds to their appeal. Easy application and conformity to various wound shapes make hydrogels practical, including in irregular or challenging areas. Scar minimization through tissue regeneration is crucial, especially in cosmetic and functional regions. Hydrogels contribute to pain management by creating a protective barrier, reducing friction, and fostering a soothing environment. Some hydrogels, with inherent antimicrobial properties, aid in infection prevention, which is a crucial aspect of successful wound healing. Their flexibility and ability to conform to wound contours ensure optimal tissue contact, enhancing overall treatment effectiveness. In summary, regenerative hydrogels present a promising approach for improving skin wound healing outcomes across diverse clinical scenarios. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the benefits, mechanisms, and challenges associated with the use of regenerative hydrogels in the treatment of skin wounds. In this review, the authors likely delve into the application of rational design principles to enhance the efficacy and performance of hydrogels in promoting wound healing. Through an exploration of various methodologies and approaches, this paper is poised to highlight how these principles have been instrumental in refining the design of hydrogels, potentially revolutionizing their therapeutic potential in addressing skin wounds. By synthesizing current knowledge and highlighting potential avenues for future research, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of regenerative medicine and ultimately improve clinical outcomes for patients with skin wounds.

Molecular Regulatory Mechanism of Nano-Se Against Copper-Induced Spermatogenesis Disorder

Selenium nanoparticle (Nano-Se) is a new type of selenium supplement, which can improve the deficiency of traditional selenium supplements and maintain its physiological activity. Due to industrial pollution and irrational use in agriculture, Cu overexposure often occurs in animals and humans. In this study, Nano-Se alleviated CuSO4-induced testicular Cu accumulation, serum testosterone level decrease, testicular structural damage, and decrease in sperm quality. Meanwhile, Nano-Se reduced the ROS content in mice testis and enhanced the activities of T-AOC, GSH, SOD, and CAT compared with CuSO4 group. Furthermore, Nano-Se alleviated CuSO4-induced apoptosis by increasing the protein expression of Cleaved-Caspase-3, Cleaved-Caspase-9, Cleaved-Caspase-12, and Bax/Bcl-2 compared with CuSO4 group. At the same time, Nano-Se reversed CuSO4-induced increase of γ-H2AX protein expression in mice testis. In conclusion, this study confirmed that Nano-Se could alleviate oxidative stress, apoptosis, and DNA damage in the testis of mice with Cu excess, thereby protecting the spermatogenesis disorder induced by Cu.

Selenium Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Examination of Synthesis Techniques and Their Diverse Applications in Medical Research and Toxicology Studies

Selenium is a trace and necessary micronutrient for human, animal, and microbial health. Many researchers have recently been interested in selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) due to their biocompatibility, bioavailability, and low toxicity. As a result of their greater bioactivity, selenium nanoparticles are widely employed in a variety of biological applications. Physical, chemical, and biological approaches can all be used to synthesize selenium nanoparticles. Since it uses non-toxic solvents and operates at a suitable temperature, the biological technique is a preferable option. This review article addresses the processes implemented in the synthesis of SeNPs and highlights their medicinal uses, such as the treatment of fungi, bacteria, cancer, and wounds. Furthermore, we discuss the most recent findings on the potential of several biological materials for selenium nanoparticle production. The precursor, extract, process, time, temperature, and other synthesis criteria will be elaborated in conjunction with the product's physical properties (size, shape, and stability). The synergies of SeNP synthesis via various methods aid future researchers in precisely synthesizing SeNPs and using them in desired applications.

Radioprotective Effect of Selenium Nanoparticles: A Mini Review

Materials and Methods

This study followed the PRISMA reporting guidelines to present the results. A comprehensive search was performed on electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Science Direct. Initially, 413 articles were retrieved. After removing duplicates and applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 articles were finally included in this systematic review.

Results

The reviewed studies showed that selenium nanoparticles had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They effectively protected the kidneys, liver, and testicles from damage. Furthermore, there was evidence of efficient radioprotection for the organs examined without significant side effects.

Conclusions

This systematic review emphasizes the potential advantages of using selenium nanoparticles to prevent the negative effects of ionizing radiation. Importantly, these protective effects were achieved without causing noticeable side effects. These findings suggest the potential role of selenium nanoparticles as radioprotective agents, offering possible therapeutic applications to reduce the risks related to ionizing radiation exposure in medical imaging and radiotherapy procedures.

CD44-targeting hyaluronic acid-selenium nanoparticles boost functional recovery following spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic strategies based on scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppressing inflammatory cascades are effective in improving functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the lack of targeting nanoparticles (NPs) with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties hampers the clinical translation of these strategies. Here, CD44-targeting hyaluronic acid-selenium (HA-Se) NPs were designed and prepared for scavenging ROS and suppressing inflammatory responses in the injured spinal cord, enhancing functional recovery.

RESULTS

The HA-Se NPs were easily prepared through direct reduction of seleninic acid in the presence of HA. The obtained HA-Se NPs exhibited a remarkable capacity to eliminate free radicals and CD44 receptor-facilitated internalization by astrocytes. Moreover, the HA-Se NPs effectively mitigated the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines (such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6) by microglia cells (BV2) upon lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation. In vivo experiments confirmed that HA-Se NPs could effectively accumulate within the lesion site through CD44 targeting. As a result, HA-Se NPs demonstrated superior protection of axons and neurons within the injury site, leading to enhanced functional recovery in a rat model of SCI.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the potential of CD44-targeting HA-Se NPs for SCI treatment.

Enhancing crop resilience by harnessing the synergistic effects of biostimulants against abiotic stress

Plants experience constant exposed to diverse abiotic stresses throughout their growth and development stages. Given the burgeoning world population, abiotic stresses pose significant challenges to food and nutritional security. These stresses are complex and influenced by both genetic networks and environmental factors, often resulting in significant crop losses, which can reach as high as fifty percent. To mitigate the effects of abiotic stresses on crops, various strategies rooted in crop improvement and genomics are being explored. In particular, the utilization of biostimulants, including bio-based compounds derived from plants and beneficial microbes, has garnered considerable attention. Biostimulants offer the potential to reduce reliance on artificial chemical agents while enhancing nutritional efficiency and promoting plant growth under abiotic stress condition. Commonly used biostimulants, which are friendly to ecology and human health, encompass inorganic substances (e.g., zinc oxide and silicon) and natural substances (e.g., seaweed extracts, humic substances, chitosan, exudates, and microbes). Notably, prioritizing environmentally friendly biostimulants is crucial to prevent issues such as soil degradation, air and water pollution. In recent years, several studies have explored the biological role of biostimulants in plant production, focusing particularly on their mechanisms of effectiveness in horticulture. In this context, we conducted a comprehensive review of the existing scientific literature to analyze the current status and future research directions concerning the use of various biostimulants, such as plant-based zinc oxide, silicon, selenium and aminobutyric acid, seaweed extracts, humic acids, and chitosan for enhancing abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants. Furthermore, we correlated the molecular modifications induced by these biostimulants with different physiological pathways and assessed their impact on plant performance in response to abiotic stresses, which can provide valuable insights.

Functionalization of selenium nanoparticles with olive polyphenols - impact on toxicity and antioxidative activity

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) represent novel selenium (Se) formulation characterized by improved biocompatibility and a wider therapeutic range in comparison to inorganic Se. The aim of this work was to investigate the possibilities of functionalization of SeNPs with olive pomace extract (OPE), rich in health-promoting polyphenols, and to obtain innovative forms of nutraceuticals. Cytotoxic and antioxidative activities of four types of SeNPs (polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized (PVP SeNPs), polysorbate stabilized (PS SeNPs), polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized and functionalized using OPE (f PVP SeNPs) and polysorbate stabilized and functionalized using OPE (f PS SeNPs) were investigated. SeNPs showed lower toxicity on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (Caco2) cells compared to selenite. Functionalization with polyphenols significantly improved their direct antiradical (f PVP SeNPs: 24.4 ± 1.84 and f PS SeNPs: 30.9 ± 2.47 mg TE/mmol Se) and reducing properties (f PVP SeNPs: 50 ± 3.16 and f PS SeNPs: 53.6 ± 3.22 mg GAE/mmol) compared to non-functionalized SeNPs. The significant impact of tested SeNPs on intracellular antioxidative mechanisms has been observed and it was dependent on both cell type and physico-chemical properties of SeNPs, indicating the complexity of involved mechanisms.

Therapeutic Potential of Selenium Nanoparticles on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Wistar Rats

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is considered the most frequent gynecological endocrine disorder that causes anovulatory infertility. The current study aimed to investigate the potential significance of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), an IL-1 inhibitor, in the treatment of letrozole-induced PCOS in rats that satisfied the metabolic and endocrine parameters found in PCOS patients. Letrozole (2 ppm, per orally, p.o.) was given orally to female Wistar rats for 21 days to develop PCOS. After PCOS induction, rats were given SeNPs (25 ppm/day, p.o.), SeNPs (50 ppm/day, p.o.), or metformin (2 ppm/day, p.o.) for 14 days. PCOS was associated with an increase in body weight, ovarian weight, ovarian size, and cysts, as well as an increase in blood testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and insulin, glycaemia, and lipid profile levels. The SeNP administration decreased all of these variables. Furthermore, SeNPs significantly reduced letrozole-induced oxidative stress in the ovaries, muscles, and liver by decreasing elevated levels of malondialdehyde and total nitrite while raising suppressed levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase. SeNPs increased the amounts of the protective proteins Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap-1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and OH-1. It was depicted from the study that SeNPs reduce the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines that are interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and the interleukin 1 (IL-1). Our findings show that SeNPs, through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, alleviate letrozole-induced PCOS.

Encapsulation of Selenium Nanoparticles and Metformin in Macrophage-Derived Cell Membranes for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury is an impact-induced disabling condition. A series of pathological changes after spinal cord injury (SCI) are usually associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. These pathological changes eventually lead to paralysis. The short half-life and low bioavailability of many drugs also limit the use of many drugs in SCI. In this study, we designed nanovesicles derived from macrophages encapsulating selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and metformin (SeNPs-Met-MVs) to be used in the treatment of SCI. These nanovesicles can cross the blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) and deliver SeNPs and Met to the site of injury to exert anti-inflammatory and reactive oxygen species scavenging effects. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that the SeNPs-Met-MVs particle size was approximately 125 ± 5 nm. Drug release assays showed that Met exhibited sustained release after encapsulation by the macrophage cell membrane. The cumulative release was approximately 80% over 36 h. In vitro cellular experiments and in vivo animal experiments demonstrated that SeNPs-Met-MVs decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities, and reduced the expression of inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and apoptotic (cleaved caspase-3) cytokines in spinal cord tissue after SCI. In addition, motor function in mice was significantly improved after SeNPs-Met-MVs treatment. Therefore, SeNPs-Met-MVs have a promising future in the treatment of SCI.

The effect of replacing sodium selenite with selenium-chitosan in laying hens on production performance, egg quality, egg selenium concentration, microbial population, immunological response, antioxidant enzymes, and fatty acid composition

The purpose of this study was to investigate into the effects of Se-chitosan and Na selenite supplementation on laying hen production performance, egg quality, egg Se concentration, microbial population, immunological response, antioxidant enzymes activity, and yolk fatty acid profile. Using a 2 × 2 factorial design, 168 27-wk-old laying hens were randomly divided into 4 treatment groups and 7 replications. Se source (Na selenite and Se-chitosan) and Se level (0.3 and 0.6 mg/kg) were used as treatments. Se-chitosan enhanced egg production percentage and egg mass (P < 0.05) when compared with Na selenite. There was an interaction, with 0.6 mg Se-chitosan/kg causing an increase in albumen height, Haugh unit, albumen index, and shell thickness of fresh eggs (P < 0.05). Se-chitosan increased yolk share, yolk color, and shape index of fresh eggs and shape index, albumen index, albumen height, Haugh unit, yolk color, shell thickness, and specific gravity of stored eggs (P < 0.05). The interaction showed that, 0.6 mg Se-chitosan/kg increased albumen Se concentration and decreased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in fresh egg yolk compared with 0.3 and 0.6 mg Na selenite/kg (P < 0.05). When compared with Na selenite, Se-chitosan increased the Se concentration in the yolk and decreased level of MDA in stored egg yolk (P < 0.01). When compared with Na selenite, Se-chitosan reduced coliforms (P < 0.01), increased lactic acid bacteria, and the lactic acid bacteria/coliform ratio (P < 0.05). Se-chitosan supplementation increased antibody response to sheep red blood cells and IgM titers and the activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in plasma (P < 0.05). Furthermore, compared with Na selenite, supplementing diets with Se-chitosan decreased ∑ n-6 PUFA/∑ n-3 PUFA ratio (P < 0.01). In conclusion, Se-chitosan supplementation of laying hen feed improved production performance, egg quality, egg Se concentration, yolk lipid oxidation, microbial population, immune response, antioxidant enzymes activity, and yolk fatty acid profile, with 0.6 mg Se-chitosan/kg supplementation being optimal.

Advances of nanotechnology for intracerebral hemorrhage therapy

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), the most devastating subtype of stoke, is of high mortality at 5 years and even those survivors usually would suffer permanent disabilities. Fortunately, various preclinical active drugs have been approached in ICH, meanwhile, the therapeutic effects of these pharmaceutical ingredients could be fully boosted with the assistance of nanotechnology. In this review, besides the pathology of ICH, some ICH therapeutically available active drugs and their employed nanotechnologies, material functions, and therapeutic principles were comprehensively discussed hoping to provide novel and efficient strategies for ICH therapy in the future.

Antioxidant nanozymes in kidney injury: mechanism and application

Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the kidneys is involved in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases, such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD), and is the main reason for the progression of kidney injury. ROS can easily lead to lipid peroxidation and damage the tubular epithelial cell membrane, proteins and DNA, and other molecules, which can trigger cellular oxidative stress. Effective scavenging of ROS can delay or halt the progression of kidney injury by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. With the development of nanotechnology and an improved understanding of nanomaterials, more researchers are applying nanomaterials with antioxidant activity to treat kidney injury. This article reviews the detailed mechanism between ROS and kidney injury, as well as the applications of nanozymes with antioxidant effects based on different materials for various kidney injuries. To better guide the applications of antioxidant nanozymes in kidney injury and other inflammatory diseases, at the end of this review we also summarize the aspects of nanozymes that need to be improved. An in-depth understanding of the role played by ROS in the occurrence and progression of kidney injury and the mechanism by which antioxidant nanozymes reduce oxidative stress is conducive to improving the therapeutic effect in kidney injury and inflammation-related diseases.

The Developments of Surface-Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles and Their Applications in Brain Diseases Therapy

Selenium (Se) and its organic and inorganic compounds in dietary supplements have been found to possess excellent pharmacodynamics and biological responses. However, Se in bulk form generally exhibits low bioavailability and high toxicity. To address these concerns, nanoscale selenium (SeNPs) with different forms, such as nanowires, nanorods, and nanotubes, have been synthesized, which have become increasingly popular in biomedical applications owing to their high bioavailability and bioactivity, and are widely used in oxidative stress-induced cancers, diabetes, and other diseases. However, pure SeNPs still encounter problems when applied in disease therapy because of their poor stability. The surface functionalization strategy has become increasingly popular as it sheds light to overcome these limitations in biomedical applications and further improve the biological activity of SeNPs. This review summarizes synthesis methods and surface functionalization strategies employed for the preparation of SeNPs and highlights their applications in treating brain diseases.

Synthesis, characterization, and cytotoxicity analysis of selenium nanoparticles stabilized by Morchella sextelata polysaccharide

Natural bioactive molecules have been widely used as stabilizers in the functional improvement of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in recent years. In this study, Morchella sextelata polysaccharide (MSP) was introduced as a novel stabilizer for the synthesis of SeNPs based on the redox system of sodium selenite and ascorbic acid. The size, morphology, stability, and anti-cancer cell activities were respectively analyzed by various methods. The results showed that the synthesized SeNPs with MSP were 72.07 ± 0.53 nm in size, red in color, spherical in shape, and amorphous in nature. MSP-SeNPs showed high scavenging activity against DPPH and ABTS radicals. And, these MSP-SeNPs exhibited a significant anti-proliferation effect on human liver (HepG2) and cervical cancer (Hela) cells in vitro, while no significant cytotoxicity against normal human kidney cells (HK-2) was observed. Moreover, the mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway triggered by MSP-SeNPs in HepG2 cell was identified. The expression levels of p53, Bax, cytochrome c, caspase-3 and caspase-9 were all up-regulated in HepG2 cells after MSP-SeNPs treatment, while Bcl-2 expression was down-regulated. These results suggest that MSP-SeNPs have strong potential as the food supplement for application in cancer chemoprevention.

Inhibition of HAdV-14 induced apoptosis by selenocystine through ROS-mediated PARP and p53 signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Human Adenovirus (HAdV) can cause severe respiratory symptoms in people with low immunity and there is no targeted treatment for adenovirus infection. Anti-adenoviral drugs have high clinical significance for inhibiting adenovirus infection. Selenium (Se) plays an important role in anti-oxidation, redox signal transduction, and redox homeostasis. The excellent biological activity of Se is mainly achieved by being converted into selenocystine (SeC). Se participates in the active sites of various selenoproteins in the form of SeC. The ability of SeC to resist the virus has raised high awareness due to its unique antioxidative activity in recent years. The antiviral ability of the SeC was determined by detecting the infection rate of the virus in the cells.

METHODS

The experiment mainly investigated the antiviral mechanism of SeC by locating the virus in the cell, detecting the generation of ROS, observing the DNA status of the cell, and monitoring the mitochondrial membrane potential.

RESULTS

In the present study, SeC was designed to resist A549 cells infections caused by HAdV-14. SeC could prevent HAdV-14 from causing cell apoptosis-related to DNA damage. SeC significantly inhibited ROS generation and protect the cells from oxidative damage induced by ROS against HAdV-14. SeC induced the increase of antiviral cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-8 by activating the Jak2 signaling pathway, and repaired DNA lesions by suppressing ATR, p53, and PARP signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

SeC might provide an effective selenium species with antiviral properties for the therapies against HAdV-14.

Pharmacological Prospects of Morin Conjugated Selenium Nanoparticles-Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Thrombolytic, and Anticancer Activities

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have gained wide importance in the scientific community and have emerged as an optimistic therapeutic carrier agent for targeted drug delivery. In the present study, the effectiveness of nano selenium conjugated with Morin (Ba-SeNp-Mo) produced from endophytic bacteria Bacillus endophyticus reported in our earlier research was tested against various Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacterial pathogens and fungal pathogens that showed good zone of inhibition against all selected pathogens. Antioxidant activities of these NPs were studied by 1, 1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-Azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiozoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide (O2-), and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging assays that exhibited dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity with IC50 values 6.92 ± 1.0, 16.85 ± 1.39, 31.60 ± 1.36, 18.87 ± 1.46, and 6.95 ± 1.27 μg/mL. The efficiency of DNA cleavage and thrombolytic activity of Ba-SeNp-Mo were also studied. The antiproliferative effect of Ba-SeNp-Mo was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay in COLON-26 cell lines that resulted in IC50 value of 63.11 μg/mL. Further increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels up to 2.03 and significant early, late and necrotic cells were also observed in AO/EtBr assay. CASPASE 3 expression was upregulated to 1.22 (40 μg/mL) and 1.85 (80 μg/mL) fold. Thus, the current investigation suggested that the Ba-SeNp-Mo has offered remarkable pharmacological activity.

Graphical Abstract

Preparation, characterization, and antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities of biosynthesized nano‑selenium by yak-derived Bacillus cereus and chitosan-encapsulated chemically synthesized nano‑selenium

Nano‑selenium (SeNPs) is a red elemental selenium with extremely small particles, which can be absorbed by the body and has biological activity. Currently, the most commonly used synthetic methods for SeNPs are biosynthesis and chemical synthesis. In this study, YC-3-SeNPs were biosynthesized by a strain of yak-gut Bacillus cereus YC-3, and meanwhile, CST-SeNPs were chemically synthesized and encapsulated with chitosan. A series of characterizations proved that YC-3-SeNPs and CST-SeNPs are spherical particles with excellent stability, and both have an excellent ability to scavenge free radicals in vitro. The particles of YC-3-SeNPs were encapsulated with polysaccharides, fiber, and protein, and it was less toxic than that of CST-SeNPs. Additionally, YC-3-SeNPs and CST-SeNPs may inhibit H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway thereby scavenging ROS. Meanwhile, they may exert anti-apoptotic activity in cardiomyocytes by stabilizing mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm) and balancing Bax/Bcl-2 protein, thereby reducing the protein expression of Cyt-c and Cleaved-caspase 3. Given the above, YC-3-SeNPs and CST-SeNPs with excellent antioxidant and anti-apoptotic activities may have broad application potential in the field of cardiovascular diseases.

Drinking water disinfection byproduct iodoacetic acid affects thyroid hormone synthesis in Nthy-ori 3-1 cells

Iodoacetic acid (IAA) is an emerging and the most genotoxic iodinated disinfection byproduct to date. IAA can disrupt the thyroid endocrine function in vivo and in vitro, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this work, transcriptome sequencing was used to investigate the effect of IAA on the cellular pathways of human thyroid follicular epithelial cell line Nthy-ori 3-1 and determine the mechanism of IAA on the synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormone (TH) in Nthy-ori 3-1 cells. Results of transcriptome sequencing indicated that IAA affected the TH synthesis pathway in Nthy-ori 3-1 cells. IAA reduced the mRNA expression of thyroid stimulating hormone receptor, sodium iodide symporter, thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin, paired box 8 and thyroid transcription factor-2, inhibited the cAMP/PKA pathway and Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase, and decreased the iodine intake. The results were confirmed by our previous findings in vivo. Additionally, IAA downregulated glutathione and the mRNA expression of glutathione peroxidase 1, leading to increased reactive oxygen species production. This study is the first to elucidate the mechanisms of IAA on TH synthesis in vitro. The mechanisms are associated with down-regulating the expression of genes related to TH synthesis, inhibiting iodine uptake, and inducing oxidative stress. These findings may improve future health risk assessment of IAA on thyroid in human.

Effect of selenium nanoparticles on biological and morphofunctional parameters of barley seeds (Hordéum vulgáre L.)

The purpose of this work was to study the effect of selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) on the biological and morphofunctional parameters of barley seeds (Hordéum vulgáre L.) We used seeds of Hordéum vulgáre L. with reduced morphofunctional characteristics. For the experiment, Se NPs were synthesized and stabilized with didecyldimethylammonium chloride. It was found that Se NPs have a spherical shape and a diameter of about 50 nm. According to dynamic light scattering data, the average hydrodynamic radius of the particles was 28 ± 8 nm. It is observed that the nanoparticles have a positive ζ-potential (+ 27.3 mV). For the experiment, we treated Hordéum vulgáre L. seeds with Se NPs (1, 5, 10 and 20 mg/L). The experiment showed that treatment of Hordéum vulgáre L. seeds with Se NPs has the best effect on the length of roots and sprout at concentration of 5 mg/L and on the number and thickness of roots at 10 mg/L. Germinability and germination energy of Hordéum vulgáre L. seeds were higher in group treated with 5 mg/L Se NPs. Analysis of macrophotographs of samples, histological sections of roots and 3D visualization of seeds by microcomputing tomography confirmed the best effect at 5 mg/L Se NPs. Moreover, no local destructions were detected at concentrations > 5 mg/L, which is most likely due to the inhibition of regulatory and catalytic processes in the germinating seeds. the treatment of Hordéum vulgáre L. seeds with > 5 mg/L Se NPs caused significant stress, coupled with intensive formation of reactive oxygen species, leading to a reorientation of root system growth towards thickening. Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that Se NPs at concentrations > 5 mg/L had a toxic effect. The treatment of barley seeds with 5% Se NPs showed maximum efficiency in the experiment, which allows us to further consider Se NPs as a stimulator for the growth and development of crop seeds under stress and reduced morphofunctional characteristics.

Selenium nanoparticles: Properties, preparation methods, and therapeutic applications

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are a unique type of nano-sized elemental selenium that have recently found wide application in biomedicine. It has been shown that the properties of SeNPs can be varied by different fabrication methods. Moreover, SeNPs have various therapeutic effects in medical applications due to their excellent biological and adaptable physical properties. At the same time, SeNPs can be used as a carrier medium for various therapeutic substances, which can bring out the full curative effects of the drugs. In this review, the differences in bioactivity properties of SeNPs prepared from different substances were reviewed; the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of SeNPs in cancer, inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, reproductive diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and other diseases were discussed; and the importance of the development of SeNPs was further emphasized.

Synthesis and cytotoxic activities of selenium nanoparticles incorporated nano-chitosan

New system compromising of chitosan nanoparticles encapsulated pre-synthesized selenium nanoparticles in the presence of 5-fluorouracil was successfully prepared and used for cancer antiproliferation. Selenium nanoparticles were synthesized using ascorbic acid as reducing agent under mild condition. Chitosan nanoparticles were prepared via ionic gelation technique using sodium tri-polyphosphate. Characterization of the prepared nanoparticles was carried out using FTIR, TEM, XRD, TGA and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The results displayed the formation of selenium nanoparticles with an average size 20 nm and chitosan nanoparticles with an average size 207 and 250 nm for neat nano-chitosan and chitosan incorporated 5-fluorouracil/selenium nanoparticles, respectively. The encapsulated nanocomposites were tested for treatment of cancer cell of human colorectal carcinoma (HCT-116), human liver carcinoma (HepG-2), and human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7. The results indicated the potent cytotoxic activities of all nanocomposite toward the tested cells with enhanced anticancer activity rather than the single drug or neat selenium nanoparticle. All composites were tested against non-tumor fibroblast-derived cell line (BJ) and demonstrated very low cytotoxicity.

Theranostic applications of selenium nanomedicines against lung cancer

The incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer are among the highest in the world. Traditional treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Although rapid progress has been achieved in the past decade, treatment limitations remain. It is therefore imperative to identify safer and more effective therapeutic methods, and research is currently being conducted to identify more efficient and less harmful drugs. In recent years, the discovery of antitumor drugs based on the essential trace element selenium (Se) has provided good prospects for lung cancer treatments. In particular, compared to inorganic Se (Inorg-Se) and organic Se (Org-Se), Se nanomedicine (Se nanoparticles; SeNPs) shows much higher bioavailability and antioxidant activity and lower toxicity. SeNPs can also be used as a drug delivery carrier to better regulate protein and DNA biosynthesis and protein kinase C activity, thus playing a role in inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. SeNPs can also effectively activate antigen-presenting cells to stimulate cell immunity, exert regulatory effects on innate and regulatory immunity, and enhance lung cancer immunotherapy. This review summarizes the application of Se-based species and materials in lung cancer diagnosis, including fluorescence, MR, CT, photoacoustic imaging and other diagnostic methods, as well as treatments, including direct killing, radiosensitization, chemotherapeutic sensitization, photothermodynamics, and enhanced immunotherapy. In addition, the application prospects and challenges of Se-based drugs in lung cancer are examined, as well as their forecasted future clinical applications and sustainable development.

Assessment of the neuroprotective effect of selenium-loaded chitosan nanoparticles against silver nanoparticles-induced toxicity in rats

BACKGROUND

With the recent growth in the applications of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs), worries about their harmful effects are increasing. Selenium plays a vital role in the antioxidant defense system as well as free radical scavenging activity.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to inspect the neuroprotective effect of selenium-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CS-SeNPs) against the adverse impact of Ag-NPs on brain tissue in adult rats.

DESIGN

Rats were divided into four groups: group I (control) was administered distilled water (0.5 mL/kg), group II was administered Ag-NPs (100 mg/kg), group III was administered Ag-NPs (100 mg/kg) and CS- SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg) and group IV received only CS- SeNPs (0.5 mg/kg) daily by oral gavage. After 60 days, rats were subjected to behavioral assessment and then euthanized. Brain tissues were obtained for estimation of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxy Guanosine (8-OHdG), and Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2 Like Protein 2 (Nrf2). Also, histological examination of the brain and immunohistochemical detection of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) were investigated RESULTS: exposure to Ag-NPs induced marked neurotoxicity in the brain tissue of rats that was manifested by decreased levels of TAC and Nrf2 with increased levels of MDA and 8-OHdG. Also, various pathological lesions with an increase in the number of GFAP immunoreactive cells were detected. While brain tissue of rats received Ag-NPs plus CS-SeNPs group (III) revealed significantly fewer pathological changes.

CONCLUSION

Co-administration of CS-SeNPs significantly ameliorates most of the Ag-NPs-induced brain damage.

Emerging Nanoparticles in Food: Sources, Application, and Safety

Nanoparticles (NPs) are small-sized, with high surface activity and antibacterial and antioxidant properties. As a result, some NPs are used as functional ingredients in food additives, food packaging materials, nutrient delivery, nanopesticides, animal feeds, and fertilizers to improve the bioavailability, quality, and performance complement or upgrade. However, the widespread use of NPs in the industry increases the exposure risk of NPs to humans due to their migration from the environment to food. Nevertheless, some NPs, such as carbon dots, NPs found in various thermally processed foods, are also naturally produced from the food during food processing. Given their excellent ability to penetrate biopermeable barriers, the potential safety hazards of NPs on human health have attracted increased attention. Herein, three emerging NPs are introduced including carbon-based NPs (e.g., CNTs), nanoselenium NPs (SeNPs), and rare earth oxide NPs (e.g., CeO₂ NPs). In addition, their applications in the food industry, absorption pathways into the human body, and potential risk mechanisms are discussed. Challenges and prospects for the use of NPs in food are also proposed.

Protective effect of spore oil-functionalized nano-selenium system on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by regulating oxidative stress-mediated pathways and activating immune response

In clinical practice, cisplatin is the most commonly used chemotherapy drug to treat a range of malignancies. Severe ROS-regulated nephrotoxicity, however, restricts its applicability. Currently, the main mechanisms leading to cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in clinical settings involve hydration or diuresis. However, not all patients can be treated with massive hydration or diuretics. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a treatment modality that can effectively reduce nephrotoxicity through a foodborne route. Selenium has been reported to have strong antioxidant as well as anticancer effects when administered as spore oil. Herein, we established cellular and animal models of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and synthesized spore oil-functionalized nano-selenium (GLSO@SeNPs). We found that GLSO@SeNPs inhibit the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway by maintaining oxidative homeostasis and regulating related signaling pathways (the MAPK, caspase, and AKT signaling pathways). In vivo, GLSO@SeNPs could effectively improve cisplatin-induced renal impairment, effectively maintaining oxidative homeostasis in renal tissues and thus inhibiting the process of renal injury. In addition, GLSO@SeNPs were converted into selenocysteine (SeCys2), which may exert protective effects. Furthermore, GLSO@SeNPs could effectively modulate the ratio of immune cells in kidneys and spleen, reducing the proportions of CD3⁺CD4⁺ T cells, CD3⁺CD8⁺ T cells, and M1 phenotype macrophages and increasing the proportion of anti-inflammatory regulatory T cells. In summary, in this study, we synthesized food-derived spore oil-functionalized nanomaterials, and we explored the mechanisms by which GLSO@SeNPs inhibit cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Our study provides a basis and rationale for the inhibition of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity by food-derived nutrients.

Gold nanoparticles capped with L-glycine, L-cystine, and L-tyrosine: toxicity profiling and antioxidant potential

Biomolecules-based surface modifications of nanomaterials may yield effective and biocompatible nanoconjugates. This study was designed to evaluate gold nanoconjugates (AuNCs) for their altered antioxidant potential. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and their conjugates gave SPR peaks in the ranges of 512-525 nm, with red or blueshift for different conjugates. Cys-AuNCs demonstrated enhanced (p < 0.05) and Gly-AuNCs (p > 0.05) displayed reduced DPPH activity. Gly-AuNCs and Tyr-AuNCs displayed enhanced ferric-reducing power and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, respectively. Cadmium-intoxicated mice were exposed to gold nanomaterials, and the level of various endogenous parameters, i.e., CAT, GST, SOD, GSH, and MTs, was evaluated. GSH and MTs in liver tissues of the cadmium-exposed group (G2) were elevated (p < 0.05), while other groups showed nonsignificance deviations than the control group. It is concluded that these nanoconjugates might provide effective nanomaterials for biomedical applications. However, more detailed studies for their safety profiling are needed before their practical applications.

Constructing Selenium Nanoparticles with Enhanced Storage Stability and Antioxidant Activities via Conformational Transition of Curdlan

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are among the emerging selenium supplements because of their high bioactivity and low toxicity. However, bare SeNPs are prone to activity loss caused by aggregation and sedimentation. This study aims to stabilize SeNPs with curdlan (CUR), a polysaccharide, to maintain or even enhance their biological activity. Herein, the stable SeNPs were constructed via the unique conformational transition of CUR induced by alkali-neutralization (AN) pretreatment. The physicochemical properties and structures of the prepared SeNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and free-radical-scavenging activity assays. The results show that most SeNPs are stabilized within the triple helix of CUR that has been pretreated with high-intensity AN treatment. These amorphous, small-sized (average size was 53.6 ± 17.7 nm), and stabilized SeNPs have significantly enhanced free-radical-scavenging ability compared to the control and can be well-stabilized for at least 240 days at 4 °C. This work indicates that CUR, as a food additive, can be used to well-stabilize SeNPs by AN pretreatment and provides a facile method to prepare and enhance the stability and bioactivity of SeNPs via triple-helix conformational transition.

Biogenic Selenium Nanoparticles in Biomedical Sciences: Properties, Current Trends, Novel Opportunities and Emerging Challenges in Theranostic Nanomedicine

Selenium is an important dietary supplement and an essential trace element incorporated into selenoproteins with growth-modulating properties and cytotoxic mechanisms of action. However, different compounds of selenium usually possess a narrow nutritional or therapeutic window with a low degree of absorption and delicate safety margins, depending on the dose and the chemical form in which they are provided to the organism. Hence, selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are emerging as a novel therapeutic and diagnostic platform with decreased toxicity and the capacity to enhance the biological properties of Se-based compounds. Consistent with the exciting possibilities offered by nanotechnology in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases, SeNPs are useful tools in current biomedical research with exceptional benefits as potential therapeutics, with enhanced bioavailability, improved targeting, and effectiveness against oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated disorders. In view of the need for developing eco-friendly, inexpensive, simple, and high-throughput biomedical agents that can also ally with theranostic purposes and exhibit negligible side effects, biogenic SeNPs are receiving special attention. The present manuscript aims to be a reference in its kind by providing the readership with a thorough and comprehensive review that emphasizes the current, yet expanding, possibilities offered by biogenic SeNPs in the biomedical field and the promise they hold among selenium-derived products to, eventually, elicit future developments. First, the present review recalls the physiological importance of selenium as an oligo-element and introduces the unique biological, physicochemical, optoelectronic, and catalytic properties of Se nanomaterials. Then, it addresses the significance of nanosizing on pharmacological activity (pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics) and cellular interactions of SeNPs. Importantly, it discusses in detail the role of biosynthesized SeNPs as innovative theranostic agents for personalized nanomedicine-based therapies. Finally, this review explores the role of biogenic SeNPs in the ongoing context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and presents key prospects in translational nanomedicine.

Latent Potential of Multifunctional Selenium Nanoparticles in Neurological Diseases and Altered Gut Microbiota

Neurological diseases remain a major concern due to the high world mortality rate and the absence of appropriate therapies to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, the major focus is on the development of such strategies that not only enhance the efficacy of drugs but also increase their permeability in the BBB. Currently, nano-scale materials seem to be an appropriate approach to treating neurological diseases based on their drug-loading capacity, reduced toxicity, targeted delivery, and enhanced therapeutic effect. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient and has been of remarkable interest owing to its essential role in the physiological activity of the nervous system, i.e., signal transmission, memory, coordination, and locomotor activity. A deficiency of Se leads to various neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, owing to the neuroprotective role of Se (selenium) nanoparticles (SeNPs) are of particular interest to treat neurological diseases. To date, many studies investigate the role of altered microbiota with neurological diseases; thus, the current review focused not only on the recent advancement in the field of nanotechnology, considering SeNPs to cure neurological diseases, but also on investigating the potential role of SeNPs in altered microbiota.

Research progress of nano selenium in the treatment of oxidative stress injury during hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is an additional injury to ischemic tissue after hepatic revascularization, and its pathological mechanism is complex. HIRI is not only involved in the molecular targets that mediate cell death, such as ion channel activation, abnormal protease activation and mitochondrial dysfunction, but also related to the down-regulation of endogenous protective signals. As a by-product of normal aerobic metabolism, reactive oxygen species (ROS) act as a multi effect physiological signal factor at low concentration. However, liver ischemia-reperfusion will lead to excessive ROS accumulation, destroy redox homeostasis, lead to oxidative stress, cause cell death through a variety of mechanisms, and drive the further damage of ischemic liver. Recent studies have found that the antioxidant treatment of nano selenium can reduce the excessive production of ROS and play a potential protective role in reducing HIRI. This paper reviews the molecular mechanism of the antioxidant effect of nano selenium for the prevention and treatment of HIRI, in order to provide further experimental basis for the clinical prevention and treatment of HIRI.

Application of nanomaterials in the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a non-traumatic hemorrhage caused by the rupture of blood vessels in the brain parenchyma, with an acute mortality rate of 30%‒40%. Currently, available treatment options that include surgery are not promising, and new approaches are urgently needed. Nanotechnology offers new prospects in ICH because of its unique benefits. In this review, we summarize the applications of various nanomaterials in ICH. Nanomaterials not only enhance the therapeutic effects of drugs as delivery carriers but also contribute to several facets after ICH such as repressing detrimental neuroinflammation, resisting oxidative stress, reducing cell death, and improving functional deficits.

Theranostic Cancer Treatment Using Lentinan-Coated Selenium Nanoparticles and Label-Free CEST MRI

Selenium nanoparticle (SeNP)-based nanotherapeutics have become an emerging cancer therapy, while effective drug delivery remains a technical hurdle. A theranostic approach, through which imaging companions are integrated with SeNPs, will allow image-guided drug delivery and, therefore, is highly desirable. Traditional methods require the chemical conjugation of imaging agents to the surface of nanoparticles, which may impede the later clinical translation. In this study, we developed a label-free strategy in which lentinan-functionalized SeNPs (LNT-SeNPs) are detected using MRI by the hydroxyl protons carried on LNT molecules. The in vitro phantom study showed that LNT and LNT-SeNPs have a strong CEST signal at 1.0 ppm apart from the water resonance, suggesting an in vivo detectability in the µM concentration range. Demonstrated on CT26 colon tumor cells, LNT-SeNPs exert a strong anticancer effect (IC50 = 4.8 μM), prominently attributed to the ability to generate intracellular reactive oxygen species. However, when testing in a mouse model of CT26 tumors, administration of LNT-SeNPs alone was found unable to deliver sufficient drugs to the tumor, leading to poor treatment responses. To improve the drug delivery, we co-injected LNT-SeNPs and TNF-α, a previously reported drug that could effectively damage the endothelial cells in the tumor vasculature, thereby increasing drug delivery to the tumor. Our results revealed a 75% increase in the intratumoral CEST MRI signal, indicating a markedly increased delivery efficiency of LNT-SeNPs when combined with TNF-α. The combination therapy also resulted in a significantly enhanced treatment outcome, as revealed by the tumor growth study. Taken together, our study demonstrates the first label-free, SeNP-based theranostic system, in which LNT was used for both functional surface coating and CEST MRI signal generating. Such a theranostic LNT-SeNP system is advantageous because it requires chemical labeling and, therefore, has high biocompatibility and low translatable barriers.

Selenium-Containing Agents Acting on Cancer-A New Hope?

Selenium-containing agents are more and more considered as an innovative potential treatment option for cancer. Light is shed not only on the considerable advancements made in understanding the complex biology and chemistry related to selenium-containing small molecules but also on Se-nanoparticles. Numerous Se-containing agents have been widely investigated in recent years in cancer therapy in relation to tumour development and dissemination, drug delivery, multidrug resistance (MDR) and immune system-related (anti)cancer effects. Despite numerous efforts, Se-agents apart from selenocysteine and selenomethionine have not yet reached clinical trials for cancer therapy. The purpose of this review is to provide a concise critical overview of the current state of the art in the development of highly potent target-specific Se-containing agents.

Synthesis and characterization of selenium nanoparticles stabilized with cocamidopropyl betaine

In this work, selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) stabilized with cocamidopropyl betaine were synthesized for the first time. It was observed that Se NPs synthesized in excess of selenic acid had a negative charge with ζ-potential of -21.86 mV, and in excess of cocamidopropyl betaine-a positive charge with ξ =  + 22.71 mV. The resulting Se NPs with positive and negative charges had a spherical shape with an average size of about 20-30 nm and 40-50 nm, respectively. According to the data of TEM, HAADF-TEM using EDS, IR spectroscopy and quantum chemical modeling, positively charged selenium nanoparticles have a cocamidopropylbetaine shell while the potential- forming layer of negatively charged selenium nanoparticles is formed by SeO₃^2- ions. The influence of various ions on the sol stability of Se NPs showed that SO₄^2- and PO₄^3- ions had an effect on the positive Se NPs, and Ba²⁺ and Fe³⁺ ions had an effect on negative Se NPs, which corresponded with the Schulze-Hardy rule. The mechanism of coagulating action of various ions on positive and negative Se NPs was also presented. Also, influence of the active acidity of the medium on the stability of Se NPs solutions was investigated. Positive and negative sols of Se NPs had high levels of stability in the considered range of active acidity of the medium in the range of 1.21-11.98. Stability of synthesized Se NPs stability has been confirmed in real system (liquid soap). An experiment with the addition of Se NPs stabilized with cocamidopropyl betaine to liquid soap showed that the particles of dispersed phases retain their initial distributions, which revealed the stability of synthesized Se NPs.

Synthesis, Characterization of Low Molecular Weight Chitosan Selenium Nanoparticles and Its Effect on DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice

Selenium nanoparticles have attracted extensive attention due to their good bioavailability and activity. In the present study, a new form of selenium nanoparticle (Low molecular weight chitosan selenium nanoparticles (LCS-SeNPs)) were synthesized in a system of sodium selenite and acetic acid. The size, element state, morphology and elementary composition of LCS-SeNPs were characterized by using various spectroscopic and microscopic measurements. The protection of LCS-SeNPs against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and the inherent mechanisms of this process were investigated. The results showed that LCS-SeNPs, with an average diameter of 198 nm, zero-valent and orange-red relatively uniform spherical particles were prepared. LCS-SeNPs were mainly composed of C, N, O and Se elements, of which Se accounted for 39.03% of the four elements C, N, O and Se. LCS-SeNPs reduced colon injury and inflammation symptoms and improved intestinal barrier dysfunction. LCS-SeNPs significantly reduced serum and colonic inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 levels. Moreover, LCS-SeNPs remarkably increased antioxidant enzyme GSH-Px levels in serum and colonic tissue. Further studies on inflammatory pathways showed that LCS-SeNPs alleviated DSS-induced colitis through the NF-κB signaling pathway, and relieved inflammatory associated oxidative stress through the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Our findings suggested that LCS-SeNPs are a promising selenium species with potential applications in the treatment of oxidative stress related inflammatory intestinal diseases.