Metabolic interrelationships and adaptations in selenium toxicity.

Abstract

The experiments discussed in this review show that the toxicity of selenium can be decreased in a number of different ways; arsenic diminishes selenium poisoning by stimulating the excretion of Se into the bile; linseed oil meal apparently lessens the effects of chronic selenosis by binding the Se in the tissues in a less toxic form; and methionine when fed in conjunction with vitamin E helps prevent liver damage due to Se, perhaps by increasing the urinary or pulmonary excretion of the element. D-Penicillamine or dithiothreitol had little beneficial value against selenium intoxication under our conditions. There is growing evidence that certain living systems can undergo an adaptive response to exposure to high levels of selenium. 43 references, 11 tables.