The Effects of Selenium on Bone Health: From Element to Therapeutics

Drug-induced osteoporosis and mechanisms of bone tissue regeneration through trace elements

Osteoporosis is associated with an imbalance in bone formation, with certain drugs used in disease treatment being implicated in its development. Supplementation with trace elements may contribute to bone regeneration, offering an alternative approach by enhancing bone mineral density (BMD) and thereby thwarting the onset of osteoporosis. This review aims to assess the mechanisms through which trace elements such as copper (Cu), iron (Fe), selenium (Se), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) are linked to increased bone mass, thus mitigating the effects of pharmaceuticals. Our findings underscore that the use of drugs such as aromatase inhibitors (AIs), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antiretrovirals, glucocorticoids, opioids, or anticonvulsants can result in decreased BMD, a primary contributor to osteoporosis. Research indicates that essential elements like Cu, Fe, Se, Mn, and Zn, through various mechanisms, can bolster BMD and forestall the onset of the disease, owing to their protective effects. Consequently, our study recommends a minimum daily intake of these essential minerals for patients undergoing treatment with the aforementioned drugs, as the diverse mechanisms governing the effects of trace elements Cu, Fe, Mn, Se, and Zn facilitate bone remodeling.

Joint effects between cadmium exposure and dietary antioxidant quality score on osteoporosis and bone mineral density

To explore the relationship between dietary antioxidant quality score (DAQS) and Cd exposure both alone and in combination with osteoporosis and bone mineral density (BMD) among postmenopausal women. In total, 4920 postmenopausal women from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included in this cross-sectional study. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to assess the association between DAQS and Cd exposure with femur neck BMD, total femur BMD, osteoporosis among postmenopausal women, respectively, and the coexistence effect of DAQS and Cd exposure. Four hundred and ninety-nine had osteoporosis. DAQS (OR = 0·86, 95 % CI 0·77, 0·97) and high DAQS (OR = 0·60, 95 % CI 0·36, 0·99) were found to be associated with decreased odds of osteoporosis, while Cd exposure (OR = 1·34, 95 % CI 1·04, 1·72) and high Cd exposure (OR = 1·45, 95 % CI 1·02, 2·06) were related to increased odds of osteoporosis. A positive correlation was observed between high DAQS and both total femur BMD and femur neck BMD. Conversely, Cd exposure was found to be negatively correlated with total femur BMD and femur neck BMD. Additionally, taking low-Cd and high-quality DAQS group as reference, the joint effect of Cd exposure and DAQS showed greater increased odds of osteoporosis and decreased total femur BMD and femur neck BMD as Cd level and DAQS combinations worsened. There may be an interaction between Cd exposure and DAQS for femur neck BMD, total femur BMD, and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Ionomic Variation Among Tissues in Fallow Deer (Dama dama) by Sex and Age

(1) In mammals, the mineral nutrient and trace elemental composition of the body - the ionome - differs among individuals. It has been hypothesized that these differences may be related to age and sex, both for ecotoxic and essential elements. (2) We investigated whether and how intraspecific ionomic variation is related to age and sex in Fallow deer (Dama dama). We tested the predictions that concentrations of ecotoxic elements increase with age, that ionomic variation is lower among young individuals than among older individuals, and that reproductive females (does) have the lowest concentrations of essential elements. (3) Culled animals of different sex and age were obtained from a single protected area. The animals were dissected to collect 13 tissues, and concentrations of 22 different elements were measured in a sample of each tissue. (4) We described substantial ionomic variation between individuals. Some of this variation was related to age and sex, as predicted. Based on the limited existing knowledge on chemical element allocation and metabolism in the body, sex-related differences were more difficult to interpret than age-related differences. Since reference values are absent, we could not judge about the consequences of the elemental values that we found. (5) More extensive ionomic surveys, based on a wide range of elements and tissues, are needed to enlarge the understanding of within-species ionomic variation and potential biological, ecological, and metabolic consequences.

SARS-CoV-2 and its Multifaceted Impact on Bone Health: Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

SARS-CoV-2 infection, the culprit of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been associated with significant long-term effects on various organ systems, including bone health. This review explores the current understanding of the impacts of SARS-CoV-2 infection on bone health and its potential long-term consequences.

RECENT FINDINGS

As part of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, bone health changes are affected by COVID-19 both directly and indirectly, with multiple potential mechanisms and risk factors involved. In vitro and preclinical studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 may directly infect bone marrow cells, leading to alterations in bone structure and osteoclast numbers. The virus can also trigger a robust inflammatory response, often referred to as a "cytokine storm", which can stimulate osteoclast activity and contribute to bone loss. Clinical evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may lead to hypocalcemia, altered bone turnover markers, and a high prevalence of vertebral fractures. Furthermore, disease severity has been correlated with a decrease in bone mineral density. Indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 on bone health, mediated through muscle weakness, mechanical unloading, nutritional deficiencies, and corticosteroid use, also contribute to the long-term consequences. The interplay of concurrent conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and kidney dysfunction with SARS-CoV-2 infection further complicates the disease's impact on bone health. SARS-CoV-2 infection directly and indirectly affects bone health, leading to potential long-term consequences. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.

COVID-19 and Bone Loss: A Review of Risk Factors, Mechanisms, and Future Directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

SARS-CoV-2 drove the catastrophic global phenomenon of the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in a multitude of systemic health issues, including bone loss. The purpose of this review is to summarize recent findings related to bone loss and potential mechanisms.

RECENT FINDINGS

The early clinical evidence indicates an increase in vertebral fractures, hypocalcemia, vitamin D deficiencies, and a loss in BMD among COVID-19 patients. Additionally, lower BMD is associated with more severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. Preclinical models have shown bone loss and increased osteoclastogenesis. The bone loss associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection could be the result of many factors that directly affect the bone such as higher inflammation, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, recruitment of Th17 cells, the hypoxic environment, and changes in RANKL/OPG signaling. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 infection can exert indirect effects on the skeleton, as mechanical unloading may occur with severe disease (e.g., bed rest) or with BMI loss and muscle wasting that has also been shown to occur with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Muscle wasting can also cause systemic issues that may influence the bone. Medications used to treat SARS-CoV-2 infection also have a negative effect on the bone. Lastly, SARS-CoV-2 infection may also worsen conditions such as diabetes and negatively affect kidney function, all of which could contribute to bone loss and increased fracture risk. SARS-CoV-2 can negatively affect the bone through multiple direct and indirect mechanisms. Future work will be needed to determine what patient populations are at risk of COVID-19-related increases in fracture risk, the mechanisms behind bone loss, and therapeutic options. This review article is part of a series of multiple manuscripts designed to determine the utility of using artificial intelligence for writing scientific reviews.

Selenomethionine, a Trace Element, Increases Osteoblastic Activity of hFOB 1.19 Cells (an In Vitro Study)

Osteoporosis and resulting fractures affect a significant group of people in the world. It has been shown in many studies that selenium has positive effects on bone metabolism. Based on this information, the aim of this study is to investigate whether bone differentiation will start in a shorter time by applying selenomethionine (SeMet) to hFOB cells.First, hFOB 1.19 cells were cultured. Safe doses of SeMet were determined by MTT and LDH tests. Ossification levels were determined by alizarin red staining and measurement of alkaline phosphatase enzyme levels. The results were analyzed with statistical tests.It was observed that SeMet increased cell viability at concentrations of 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µM in 24 h. At these concentrations, cell viability increased above the control, the viabilities were as follows: 109.4%, 104.9%, 104.3%, 103.15%, and 100.27%. High doses of SeMet significantly reduce cell viability. According to Alizarin red staining, SeMet increases the amount of calcium deposits in hFOB cells in a dose-dependent manner. In the experimental groups, the highest ALP enzyme was determined in the 7-day SeMet application. The most effective dose was measured as 15 µM.It was determined that SeMet, which is found as a trace element in living things in nature, increases the viability of hFOB cells, which are osteoblast cell precursors, and increases osteoblastic differentiation and osteoblastic activity in these cells. Our results are at a level that sheds light on an important problem in public health.

Risk Factors of Low Bone Mineral Density in Newly Diagnosed Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract with an increasing worldwide incidence. IBD is frequently diagnosed during childhood in the adolescent period of ongoing growth and development, and it can affect patients' linear growth, puberty, nutrition, and bone health. Therefore, its treatment and monitoring are critical to prevent secondary outcomes. However, few studies have highlighted the association between pediatric IBD and skeletal outcomes in Asian populations. We aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors for low bone mineral density (BMD) in Korean children and adolescents with newly diagnosed IBD. Patients aged 10-18 years diagnosed with either Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) who underwent lumbar spine bone mineral density (LSBMD) and femoral bone mineral density (FBMD) analyses via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the time of IBD diagnosis were included. Low BMD was considered when the age- and sex-matched BMD Z-score was <-1.0. The LSBMD and FBMD Z-scores were correlated with clinical parameters, including general characteristics, anthropometry, and IBD-associated laboratory markers. Regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for low BMD. Although the general characteristics between CD (n = 42) and UC (n = 9) groups did not differ, the mean Z-scores of LSBMD and FBMD of the 51 subjects were -0.11 ± 1.24 and -0.58 ± 1.38, respectively. Furthermore, 7.8% and 18% of the study subjects had LSBMD and FBMD Z-scores < -2.0, whereas more than 50% had scores of 0--1.0. Among the clinical factors, body mass index (BMI) Z-score, duration of clinical manifestations, and serum alanine aminotransferase and selenium levels were associated with LSBMD Z-scores in the final multivariate regression analyses. Odds ratios of BMI < -2.0 standard deviation for low LSBMD and FBMD Z-scores were 31.97 and 41.45, respectively. A BMI Z-score < -0.93 was determined as the best cut-off for predicting low BMD. In newly diagnosed pediatric IBD, a substantial number of children are likely to have low BMD in prior to initial treatment while lower BMI, longer duration of clinical manifestation, and higher selenium concentration could affect initial BMD status. Routine bone health surveillance from initial IBD diagnosis throughout the treatment's completion is recommended for preventing the early development of secondary osteoporosis.

A State-of-the-Art Systemic Review on Selenium Nanoparticles: Mechanisms and Factors Influencing Biogenesis and Its Potential Applications

Selenium is a trace element required for the active function of numerous enzymes and various physiological processes. In recent years, selenium nanoparticles draw the attention of scientists and researchers because of its multifaceted uses. The process involved in chemically synthesized SeNPs has been found to be hazardous in nature, which has paved the way for safe and ecofriendly SeNPs to be developed in order to achieve sustainability. In comparison to chemical synthesis, SeNPs can be synthesized more safely and with greater flexibility utilizing bacteria, fungi, and plants. This review focused on the synthesis of SeNPs utilizing bacteria, fungi, and plants; the mechanisms involved in SeNP synthesis; and the effect of various abiotic factors on SeNP synthesis and morphological characteristics. This article discusses the synergies of SeNP synthesis via biological routes, which can help future researchers to synthesize SeNPs with more precision and employ them in desired fields.

The association between selenium and bone health: a meta-analysis

Aims

Previous studies have suggested that selenium as a trace element is involved in bone health, but findings related to the specific effect of selenium on bone health remain inconclusive. Thus, we performed a meta-analysis by including all the relevant studies to elucidate the association between selenium status (dietary intake or serum selenium) and bone health indicators (bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis (OP), or fracture).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched to retrieve relevant articles published before 15 November 2022. Studies focusing on the correlation between selenium and BMD, OP, or fracture were included. Effect sizes included regression coefficient (β), weighted mean difference (WMD), and odds ratio (OR). According to heterogeneity, the fixed-effect or random-effect model was used to assess the association between selenium and bone health.

Results

From 748 non-duplicate publications, 19 studies were included. We found a significantly positive association between dietary selenium intake (β = 0.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.00 to 0.07, p = 0.029) as well as serum selenium (β = 0.13, 95% CI 0.00 to 0.26, p = 0.046) and BMD. Consistently, those with higher selenium intake had a lower risk of OP (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.72, p = 0.001), and patients with OP had a significantly lower level of serum selenium than healthy controls (WMD = -2.01, 95% CI -3.91 to -0.12, p = 0.037). High dietary selenium intake was associated with a lower risk of hip fracture (OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.52, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Selenium was positively associated with BMD and inversely associated with OP; dietary selenium intake was negatively associated with hip fracture. The causality and therapeutic effect of selenium on OP needs to be investigated in future studies.

The Role of Trace Elements and Minerals in Osteoporosis: A Review of Epidemiological and Laboratory Findings

The objective of the present study was to review recent epidemiological and clinical data on the association between selected minerals and trace elements and osteoporosis, as well as to discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations. We have performed a search in the PubMed-Medline and Google Scholar databases using the MeSH terms "osteoporosis", "osteogenesis", "osteoblast", "osteoclast", and "osteocyte" in association with the names of particular trace elements and minerals through 21 March 2023. The data demonstrate that physiological and nutritional levels of trace elements and minerals promote osteogenic differentiation through the up-regulation of BMP-2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as well as other pathways. miRNA and epigenetic effects were also involved in the regulation of the osteogenic effects of trace minerals. The antiresorptive effect of trace elements and minerals was associated with the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis. At the same time, the effect of trace elements and minerals on bone health appeared to be dose-dependent with low doses promoting an osteogenic effect, whereas high doses exerted opposite effects which promoted bone resorption and impaired bone formation. Concomitant with the results of the laboratory studies, several clinical trials and epidemiological studies demonstrated that supplementation with Zn, Mg, F, and Sr may improve bone quality, thus inducing antiosteoporotic effects.

The Osteogenic Properties of Calcium Phosphate Cement Doped with Synthetic Materials: A Structured Narrative Review of Preclinical Evidence

Bone grafting is commonly used as a treatment to repair bone defects. However, its use is challenged by the presence of medical conditions that weaken the bone, like osteoporosis. Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) is used to restore bone defects, and it is commonly available as a bioabsorbable cement paste. However, its use in clinical settings is limited by inadequate mechanical strength, inferior anti-washout characteristics, and poor osteogenic activity. There have been attempts to overcome these shortcomings by adding various natural or synthetic materials as enhancers to CPC. This review summarises the current evidence on the physical, mechanical, and biological properties of CPC after doping with synthetic materials. The incorporation of CPC with polymers, biomimetic materials, chemical elements/compounds, and combination with two or more synthetic materials showed improvement in biocompatibility, bioactivity, anti-washout properties, and mechanical strength. However, the mechanical property of CPC doped with trimethyl chitosan or strontium was decreased. In conclusion, doping of synthetic materials enhances the osteogenic features of pure CPC. The positive findings from in vitro and in vivo studies await further validation on the efficacy of these reinforced CPC composites in clinical settings.

Association between composite dietary antioxidant index and handgrip strength in American adults: Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2011-2014)

Background

The Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI), a composite score of multiple dietary antioxidants (including vitamin A, C, and E, selenium, zinc, and carotenoids), represents an individual’s comprehensive dietary antioxidant intake profile. CDAI was developed based on its combined effect on pro-inflammatory markers Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory effects of Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which are associated with many health outcomes, including depression, all-cause mortality, colorectal cancer, etc. Handgrip strength is used as a simple measure of muscle strength, not only is it highly correlated with overall muscle strength, but also serves as a diagnostic tool for many adverse health outcomes, including sarcopenia and frailty syndromes.

Purpose

The association between CDAI and Handgrip strength (HGS) is currently unclear. This study investigated the association between CDAI (including its components) and HGS in 6,019 American adults.

Method

The research data were selected from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES), and a total of 6,019 American adults were screened and included. A weighted generalized linear regression model was used to evaluate CDAI (including its components) and HGS.

Results

(1) CDAI was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.009, 0.005∼0.013, P &lt; 0.001), and the trend test showed that compared with the lowest quartile of CDAI, the highest quartile of CDAI was positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.084, 0.042∼0.126, P = 0.002) and significant in trend test (P for trend &lt; 0.0100). Gender subgroup analysis showed that male CDAI was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.015, 0.007∼0.023, P = 0.002), and the trend test showed that compared with the lowest quartile of CDAI, the highest quartile of CDAI was positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.131, 0.049∼0.213, P = 0.006) and the trend test was significant (P for trend &lt; 0.0100). There was no correlation between female CDAI and HGS, and the trend test was not statistically significant (P &gt; 0.05). (2) The intake of dietary vitamin E, Zinc and Selenium showed a significant positive correlation with HGS (β = 0.004, 0.002∼0.007, P = 0.006; β = 0.007, 0.004∼0.009, P &lt; 0.001; β = 0.001, 0.001∼0.001, P &lt; 0.001), vitamin A, vitamin C and carotenoid were significantly associated with HGS in the Crude Model, but this significant association disappeared in the complete model with the increase of control variables. Gender subgroup analysis showed that in model 3, male dietary intake levels of vitamin E, Zinc, and Selenium were significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.005, 0.002∼0.009, P = 0.011; β = 0.007, 0.004∼0.011, P = 0.001; β = 0.001, 0.001∼0.001, P = 0.004), the rest of the indicators had no significant correlation with HGS. Among the female subjects, dietary zinc intake was significantly positively correlated with HGS (β = 0.005, 0.001∼0.008, P = 0.008), and there was no significant correlation between other indicators and HGS (P &gt; 0.05).

Conclusion

There was an association between the CDAI and HGS, but there was a gender difference, and there was an association between the CDAI and HGS in male, but the association was not significant in female. Intake of the dietary antioxidants vitamin E, selenium, and zinc was associated with HGS in male, but only zinc was associated with HGS among dietary antioxidants in female.

[The effect of internal course intake of selenium-modified mineral water on bone mineral density after long-term diet-induced metabolic disorders in the experiment. (Randomized controlled trial)]

INTRODUCTION

The phenomenon of therapeutic and prophylactic effect of natural mineral waters (MW) used to restore tissue tolerance to glucose and normalize basal insulin secretion in metabolic syndrome is well known. At the same time, the use of selenium-enriched MW is promising due to its multitarget action including participation in the regulation of the protein-synthesizing function of cells.

AIM

To study the effect of internal course intake of selenium-modified mineral waters of different composition on bone mineral density after long-term diet-induced metabolic disorders in the experiment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was carried out on outbred male white rats that were distributed into 3 control groups (CG) and 4 main groups (MG). In CG1 14 animals received laboratory food and drinking water; in CG2 14 animals were modeled for diet-induced metabolic disorders, and they were withdrawn from the experiment the day after the cancellation of the hypercaloric diet (180 days); after the cancellation of the hypercaloric diet 180 days later 14 animals with diet-induced metabolic disorders in CG3 had a standard diet (laboratory food and drinking water) for 30 days. In the experimental groups (EG), the animals similarly to CG3 were modeled diet-induced metabolic disorders, after the cancellation of the diet they had a standard diet and watering with MW. In MG1 18 animals were given MW1 (Essentuki-4); in MG2 19 animals had a course of MW1Se (Essentuki-4 enriched with selenium); in MG3 14 animals had a course of MW2 (Slavyanovskaya); in MG4 18 animals had a course of MB2Se (Slavyanovskaya enriched with selenium). The weight (body weight) of the animals was monitored monthly. Biochemical studies, densitometry and computed microtomography were used to determine the effectiveness of MW.

RESULTS

The characteristics of spongy bone tissue of femoral metaphysis of the rats of the control groups revealed disorders of varying degrees, but, despite this, the bone tissue structure of the examined vertebral bodies in animals without a hyper caloric diet (CG1) was preserved. The analysis of the study results demonstrated a significant effectiveness of selenium-enriched MW in regulating metabolic processes (p<0.05-p<0.01), bone mineral density (p<0.05), reduced bone resorption (p<0.05), that is, the characteristics of spongy bone tissue of femoral metaphysis and vertebral bodies of animals showed a clear tendency to restore bone structure.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study make it possible to predict an increase in the effectiveness of medical rehabilitation of patients with somatic diseases when selenium-enriched MW is included in the programmes.

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.

Selenium Levels based on Various Menopause Complaints Assessed by Menopause-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire before and after Selenium Intervention

BACKGROUND: Menopausal symptoms can greatly affect a woman’s personal, social, and work life. Selenium functions as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase and helps minimize oxidative damage through cellular metabolism in postmenopausal women when estradiol production decreases, antioxidant protection is lost and therefore oxidative stress is increased. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluated effect of selenium supplementation on selenium levels based on menopausal complaints assessed by menopause-specific quality of life questionnaire (MENQOL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research is an analytical study with quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test one group only design. The research was conducted on all postmenopausal women in Medan who were aged >51-years-old and met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The research subjects underwent blood tests to assess serum selenium levels. If data were normally distributed, dependent T test will be used, while if data were not normally distributed, Wilcoxon test will be used. The analysis results were stated to be significant with p < 0.05. RESULTS: Mean selenium serum levels before selenium administration were 93.20 ± 17.253 μg/L which increased to 132.12 ± 19.866 μg/L after selenium administration. Comparison test results of selenium levels before and after administration found p = 0.000 (p < 0.05), which means there was a significant difference of selenium serum levels before and after selenium administration. Besides that, there were no significant scores difference in aspects of vasomotor disorders (p = 1.000 [p > 0.05]), psychosocial disorders (p = 0.090 [p > 0.05]), physical disorders (p = 0.323 [p > 0.05]), and sexual disorders (p = 0.959 [p > 0.05]) between before and after selenium administration. CONCLUSION: Total MENQOL scores and complaints based on aspects of vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual disturbances did not show statistically significant changes after administration selenium tablets 100 mcg/day for 7 days.

Hydroxy-selenomethionine enhances the productivity and egg quality of 50- to 70-week-old semi-heavy laying hens under heat stress

Oxidative stress significantly compromises the production efficiency of laying hens. It has been reported in literature that selenium (Se) in poultry diets has a positive effect on mitigating these effects. This study has been carried out to evaluate the effects of Se supplementation in feeds, from either an inorganic or a hydroxy-selenomethionine (OH-SeMet) source, on the performance and physiological traits of 50- to 70-wk-old Dekalb Brown laying hens under heat stress, and on their egg quality after different storage durations. The treatments consisted in supplementing 0.3 ppm of Se as sodium selenite (SS; 45%-0.7g/ton) or OH-SeMet (2%-15g/ton) in twelve 16-bird replicates. Supplementation with OH-SeMet resulted in a better performance of the laying hens than with SS: -5% feed conversion ratio and +3.6% of egg mass. A reduction in egg quality was observed with prolonged egg storage, which was mitigated with the use of OH-SeMet in laying hen diets. The use of OH-SeMet increased the antioxidant capacity of the birds, which showed higher glutathione peroxidase levels in the blood, kidneys, liver, and intestinal mucosa, in addition to a higher Se content in the eggs and a greater bone resistance. Thus, supplementing feeds with 0.3 ppm of OH-SeMet to 50- to 70-wk-old semi-heavy laying hens enhances their antioxidant capacity and leads to a higher egg quality and productivity than SS supplementation.

Exploring nanoselenium to tackle mutated SARS-CoV-2 for efficient COVID-19 management

Despite ongoing public health measures and increasing vaccination rates, deaths and disease severity caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its new emergent variants continue to threaten the health of people around the world. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel strategies for research, diagnosis, treatment, and government policies to combat the variant strains of SARS-CoV-2. Since the state-of-the-art COVID-19 pandemic, the role of selenium in dealing with COVID-19 disease has been widely discussed due to its importance as an essential micronutrient. This review aims at providing all antiviral activities of nanoselenium (Nano-Se) ever explored using different methods in the literature. We systematically summarize the studied antiviral activities of Nano-Se required to project it as an efficient antiviral system as a function of shape, size, and synthesis method. The outcomes of this article not only introduce Nano-Se to the scientific community but also motivate scholars to adopt Nano-Se to tackle any serious virus such as mutated SARS-CoV-2 to achieve an effective antiviral activity in a desired manner.

Selenium as an important factor in various disease states - a review

Selenium (Se) is an element that has a pro-health effect on humans and animals. However, both the deficiency of this element and its excess may prove harmful to the body depending on the chemical form of the selenium, the duration of supplementation, and the human health condition. Many data indicate insufficient coverage of the demand for selenium in humans and animals due to its low content in soils and food products. A balance in the physiological process of the body can be achieved via the proper percentage of organically active minerals in the feed of animals as well as human beings. Selenium is a trace mineral of great importance to the body, required for the maintenance of a variety of its processes; primarily, selenium maintains immune endocrine, metabolic, and cellular homeostasis. Recently, this element has been emerging as a most promising treatment option for various disorders. Therefore, research based on Se has been increasing in recent times. The present review is designed to provide up-to-date information related to Se and its different forms as well as its effects on health.

An In Vitro Evaluation of Selenium Nanoparticles on Osteoblastic Differentiation and Antimicrobial Properties against Porphyromonas gingivalis

Despite numerous treatment methods, there is no gold standard for the treatment of peri-implantitis—an infectious peri-implant disease. Here, we examined selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) at a wide range of concentrations to investigate their cytotoxicity, regulation of osteoblastic differentiation, and assessed the antibacterial effect against Porphyromonas gingivalis. SeNPs (mean size: 70 nm; shape: near-spherical; concentration: 0–2048 ppm) were tested against the MC3T3-E1 osteoblast precursor cell line and P. gingivalis red complex pathogen. Reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis was used to evaluate the bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) signaling pathway. SeNPs at concentrations of 2–16 ppm showed no obvious cytotoxicity and promoted good mineralization and calcification. SeNPs at concentrations 64 ppm and below influenced gene expression promoting osteoblastic differentiation, whereas at high concentrations inhibited the expression of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2). The growth of P. gingivalis was significantly inhibited at SeNP concentrations of more than 4 ppm. SeNPs at low concentrations promoted osteoblastic differentiation while strongly inhibiting peri-implantitis pathogen growth. This study represents one of the few in vitro assessments of SeNPs against a red complex pathogen and the regulatory effect on osteoblastic differentiation. The findings demonstrate SeNPs could potentially be used for future application on implant coating.

Association Between Serum Selenium Concentration and OPG/RANKL/RANK Axis in Patients with Arterial Hypertension

The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between the serum selenium concentration (Se-S) and the blood concentrations of osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) and the OPG/RANKL ratio in patients with arterial hypertension. The study group comprised 138 patients with arterial hypertension (age: 56.04 ± 11.59 years). Se-S was determined in all the subjects. Based on the Se-S, the following subgroups were distinguished: a subgroup of patients with a lower Se-S ("low-Se", Se-S < median) and a subgroup of patients with a higher Se-S ("high-Se", Se-S ≥ median). Moreover, the blood concentrations of the parameters of bone metabolism and extraskeletal calcification were assessed: OPG and RANKL. The OPG/RANKL ratio was calculated. In the "low-Se" subgroup, the RANKL concentration was statistically significantly lower, and the OPG/RANKL ratio was statistically significantly higher than in the patients in the "high-Se" subgroup. The correlation analysis showed the negative linear relationships between Se-S and OPG (r = - 0.25, p < 0.05) and between Se-S and OPG/RANKL (r = - 0.47, p < 0.05). Moreover, Se-S positively correlated with RANKL (r = 0.33, p < 0.05). In regression analysis, higher body mass index (BMI), smoking and lower Se-S were independently associated with a higher OPG/RANKL ratio, while lower BMI, use of diuretics, β-blockers and ACE inhibitors and lower OPG/RANKL ratio with effective blood pressure control. In summary, in the group of patients with arterial hypertension, lower Se-S is associated with an unfavourable prognostic panel of parameters of bone metabolism and extraskeletal calcification. Lower Se-S is an independent risk factor for a higher OPG/RANKL ratio, which is an independent prediction factor of ineffective blood pressure control in patients with hypertension.

Effect of Copper and Selenium Supplementation on the Level of Elements in Rats' Femurs under Neoplastic Conditions

A study was conducted to determine the effect of long-term supplementation with selenium and copper, administered at twice the level used in the standard diet of rats, on the content of selected elements in the femoral bones of healthy rats and rats with implanted LNCaP cancer cells. After an adaptation period, the animals were randomly divided into two experimental groups. The rats in the experimental group were implanted with prostate cancer cells. The rats in the control group were kept in the same conditions as those in the experimental group and fed the same diet, but without implanted cancer cells. The cancer cells (LNCaP) were intraperitoneally implanted in the amount of 1 × 106 (in PBS 0.4 mL) at the age of 90 days. The content of elements in the samples was determined by a quadrupole mass spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma ionization (ICP-MS). In the femoral bones of rats with implanted LNCaP cells, in the case of the standard diet and the copper-enriched diet, there was a marked decreasing trend in the content of the analysed elements relative to the control rats. This may indicate slow osteolysis taking place in the bone tissue. Contrasting results were obtained for the diet enriched with selenium; there was no significant reduction in the level of these elements, and there was even an increase in the concentrations of Fe and K in the bones of rats with implanted LNCaP cells. Particularly, numerous changes in the mineral composition of the bones were generated by enriching the diet with copper. The elements that most often underwent changes (losses) in the bones were cobalt, iron, manganese and molybdenum. The changes observed, most likely induced by the implantation of LNCaP cells, may indicate a disturbance of mineral homeostasis.

Relationships Between Indicators of Metabolic Disorders and Selected Concentrations of Bioelements and Lead in Serum and Bone Tissue in Aging Men

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between serum and bone concentrations of selected bioelements, ie, zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chrome (Cr), magnesium (Mg), and selenium (Se), and a heavy metal, ie, lead (Pb), and the selected indicators of metabolic disorders - Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI), Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) and Body Mass Index (BMI).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprised 151 men aged 60 to 75 years who were scheduled for hip replacement surgery due to osteoarthritis. The concentrations of elements in the serum and bone tissue were measured using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (Mg, Zn, Cu, Cr, Fe, and Pb) and the spectrofluorometric method (Se). Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), high-density cholesterol (HDL-Ch), and triacylglycerols (TAG) were determined. Lipid accumulation product (LAP) and visceral adiposity index (VAI) were calculated.

RESULTS

There was no relationship between serum and bone concentrations of bioelements and lead and the BMI index. Bone Mg was significantly higher in men with higher VAI, but no such relation was observed in the serum. Similarly, bone Mg and Zn were higher in patients with higher LAP, which was not observed in the serum. Multivariate logistic regression analysis with adjustment for age was performed. There was a correlation between serum Zn concentration and the cut-off point for VAI. The cut-off point for LAP was related to the bone tissue concentrations of Mg, Zn, and Cu.

CONCLUSION

We found some relationships between the concentrations of selected bioelements and Pb and VAI, LAP, and BMI in bone but not in the serum. VAI positively correlated with bone Mg, while LAP positively correlated with bone Cu, Zn, and Mg.