The role of selenium in the functioning of immune system components and the incidence of allergies: a content analysis of recent literature

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element. Adequate intake of selenium is necessary for optimal functioning of cellular and humoral processes in the body. Lack of selenium in the diet can lead to aggravation of infectious and allergic diseases and also increase the risk of tumor formation. This review article provides data on the metabolic pathways of selenium and its role in the immune system, as well as the occurrence of allergies and antitumor and antioxidant protection. In detail, the role of selenium is discussed in relation to the implementation of body antiviral defenses. Under conditions of selenium deficiency, numerous viral infections are linked to an unfavorable prognosis, and this article specifically considers the problem of myocarditis occurring during viral infections, summarizing data on the pathogenesis of the condition and possible connections with selenium deficiency. The results of content analysis demonstrate that selenium, participating in the synthesis of selenium-containing enzymes and selenoproteins, ensures the functioning and activity of innate and acquired immunity, antitumour and antioxidant defence, which indirectly affects the course of allergic diseases. Selenium deficiency increases the incidence of allergies, tumours and infections, especially viral infections. In case of viral infections, not only the course of immune reactions depends on sufficient amount of selenium in the organism, but also the possibility of increasing the virulence of the pathogen in case of selenium deficiency. In the case of a severe course of the disease, the main symptoms of infection may be joined by other, more serious manifestations, such as myocarditis. The antioxidant, immunostimulant and antiviral properties of selenium ensure its modifying role in the development of diseases and the percentage of fatalities. Rational consumption of selenium may be of great importance in the prevention, course and determination of outcomes of many diseases, including allergopathology.