Deciphering the role of selenium‐enriched rice protein hydrolysates in the regulation of Pb2+‐induced cytotoxicity: an in vitro Caco‐2 cell model study

Abstract

SummaryLead (Pb), a well‐known toxic metal, has a potential of adverse effects on human health. Selenium (Se) can reduce the toxicity caused by heavy metals. In this study, we investigated the protection mechanism of the purified Se‐enriched rice protein hydrolysates (SPHs‐2) on the Pb2+‐induced cytotoxicity. A Caco‐2 cell model was established to characterise the effect of SPHs‐2 on Pb2+ absorption in the simulated small intestine. Results showed that 1000 μg mL−1 of SPHs‐2 treatment could significantly increase cell viability by 19.43% in Pb2+‐treated Caco‐2 cells (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the absorption of Pb2+ was successfully retarded by incorporating SPHs‐2. Interestingly, selenomethionine (SeMet) was identified as a major Se species in SPHs‐2 by HPLC‐ICP‐MS, and SeMet played a crucial role in regulating Pb2+ intestinal absorption via forming complexes. In light of this, SPHs‐2 may serve as a potential Pb2+‐chelating peptide for developing novel functional food and protecting human health.