Abstract
Purpose: This review of the literature intends to provide readers an understanding of the prophylactic and antidotal usefulness of selenium (Se) for mercury (Hg) toxicity. We will provide an explanation of Hg and Se interactions for potential remediation options to contaminated ecosystems. Design/methodology/approach: In this mini-review, we discuss mechanistic aspects between Hg and Se, the implication for health outcomes, and its usefulness in the ecological recovery of Hg contaminated areas. Findings: Mercury has a strong affinity for Se, resulting in Se-dependent enzymes and proteins’ deactivation with devastating consequences to the host. It is likely that Hg’s toxicity results in Se deficiency. Selenium compounds can have prophylactic or antidotal effects to prevent or reverse the adverse toxicity action of Hg exposure. Current research indicates that the chemical interactions between Hg and Se are unique. The Hg capturing capacity of Se is a million times higher than sulfur compounds and results in inactive complexes. Practical implications: Future work can target engineering methods for technologies that can reduce the toxicity of Hg in the environment. Originality/value: The unique interactions between the elements are that Hg can compromise Se dependent enzymes; however, pharmacologic doses of Se can prevent or modulate the toxic effects of Hg. Paper type: Literature review.
Highlights
Omaye documented to result in adverse health effects. Both natural and anthropogenic sources result in Hg emissions with adverse environmental and human health issues
Selenium salts are toxic in large amounts, but trace amounts are required for cellular function in many organisms, including all animals
To perform accurate environmental and epidemiological Hg exposure risk assessments, we recommend that future studies will need to simultaneously assess the amounts and forms of Se that are present
Summary
Environmental mercury (Hg) has the reputation of being a poison, and exposure to this element or derivatives of Hg either by ingestion or inhalation has been. T. Omaye documented to result in adverse health effects. Omaye documented to result in adverse health effects Both natural and anthropogenic sources result in Hg emissions with adverse environmental and human health issues. Human activities have increased Hg concentrations in the Earth’s atmosphere by three-fold since the 1800s [1] [2] [3]. Once Hg enters the environment, it can be transformed by microbial organisms to a more bioavailable form, methyl Hg (CH3Hg) [4], which is more readily absorbed by organisms and bioaccumulates. A buildup of Hg in food, such as; fish, can become health issues for larger animals and humans
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