Sodium Selenite Research Articles

Matrine induces cardiotoxicity by promoting ferroptosis through the Nrf2 antioxidant system in H9c2 cells

Matrine (MT) has shown promising efficacy in various cancers and chronic hepatitis; however, its clinical application is limited because of its side effects. Our previous studies have indicated that MT can induce severe hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. The current study aimed to investigate its cardiotoxicity and potential underlying mechanisms in H9c2 cells. Our results showed that MT induced H9c2 cell death and disrupted the cellular membrane integrity. Moreover, MT decreased glutathione (GSH) and cysteine (Cys) levels, and increased Fe2+, lipid peroxidation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and MDA levels, ultimately leading to ferroptosis. Interestingly, these phenomena were alleviated by the ferroptosis inhibitor Fer-1, whereas MT-induced ferroptosis was exacerbated by the ferroptosis agonist RSL3. In addition, MT significantly reduced FTH, Nrf2, xCT, GPX4, and FSP1 protein levels and inhibited the transcriptional activity of Nrf2 while increasing TFR1 protein levels. Supplementation with Nrf2 agonist (Dimethyl fumarate, DMF) or selenium (Sodium selenite, SS) and CoQ10 alleviated MT-induced cytotoxic effects in H9c2 cells. These results suggest that ferroptosis, which is mediated by an imbalance in the Nrf2 antioxidant system, is involved in MT-induced cardiac toxicity.

Identification and functional characterization of ABC transporters for selenium accumulation and tolerance in soybean

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters were crucial for various physiological processes like nutrition, development, and environmental interactions. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for humans, and its role in plants depends on applied dosage. ABC transporters are considered to participate in Se translocation in plants, but detailed studies in soybean are still lacking. We identified 196 ABC genes in soybean transcriptome under Se exposure using next-generation sequencing and single-molecule real-time sequencing technology. These proteins fell into eight subfamilies: 8 GmABCA, 51 GmABCB, 39 GmABCC, 5 GmABCD, 1 GmABCE, 10 GmABCF, 74 GmABCG, and 8 GmABCI, with amino acid length 121∼3022 aa, molecular weight 13.50∼341.04 kDa, and isoelectric point 4.06∼9.82. We predicted a total of 15 motifs, some of which were specific to certain subfamilies (especially GmABCB, GmABCC, and GmABCG). We also found predicted alternative splicing in GmABCs: 60 events in selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs)-treated, 37 in sodium selenite (Na2SeO3)-treated samples. The GmABC genes showed differential expression in leaves and roots under different application of Se species and Se levels, most of which are belonged to GmABCB, GmABCC, and GmABCG subfamilies with functions in auxin transport, barrier formation, and detoxification. Protein-protein interaction and weighted gene co-expression network analysis suggested functional gene networks with hub ABC genes, contributing to our understanding of their biological functions. Our results illuminate the contributions of GmABC genes to Se accumulation and tolerance in soybean and provide insight for a better understanding of their roles in soybean as well as in other plants.

Effects of supplementation of different selenium sources on lipid profile, selenium, and vitamin E concentration of yolk.

Egg preference as a source of protein also provides beneficial fatty acids, vital for human consumption. However, rich in lipid products are prone to oxidative damage. The study aims to determine the effect of supplementing biogenic selenium (Se) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, ADS18 (ADS18) in laying hens' diet on yolk lipid oxidation status (MDA), beta-carotene (β-carotene) content, cholesterol, fatty acids, Se, and vitamin E (VE) level. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) laying hens of Lohmann Brown strains aged 50 weeks, weighing 1500 to 2000g were reared individually in A-shape two-tier stainless-steel cages sized 30cm x 50cm x 40cm (width, depth height). The hens were randomly allotted into four treatments with six replications in a complete randomised design for the period of 12 weeks. The basal diet contains 100mg/kg VE. Treatment diets consist of basal diet as control, SS containing 0.3mg/kg sodium selenite, Se-yeast containing 0.3mg/kg selenised yeast, and VADS18 containing 0.3mg/kg of ADS18. Forty-eight eggs were collected and freeze-dried biweekly for analysis. The results of the present study showed that hens supplemented ADS18 had significantly (P < 0.05) lower MDA and cholesterol levels while their egg yolks had higher levels of Se and mono-unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). The control group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents than the VE and dietary Se-supplemented groups, while the ADS18 group had the lowest SFA contents. Conversely, in comparison to the inorganic and control groups, the VE content of the egg yolk was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in organic Se-supplemented (Se-yeast and VADS18) groups. Hens with SS supplementation had significantly (P < 0.05) higher egg yolk β-carotene content. When compared to other treatment groups, the control group had higher (P < 0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) content. The ADS18 is therefore deemed comparable to other Se sources. To prevent Se toxicity, however, a better understanding of the levels of ADS18 incorporation in poultry diets is required.

Nano-Selenium Alleviates Cd-Induced Chronic Colitis through Intestinal Flora.

Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental contaminant that poses risks to human and animal health. Selenium (Se), a beneficial element, alleviates the detrimental consequences of colitis and Cd toxicity. Se is found in food products as both inorganic Se (sodium selenite) and organic Se (typically Se-enriched yeast). Nano-selenium (nano-Se; a novel form of Se produced through the bioreduction of Se species) has recently garnered considerable interest, although its effects against Cd-induced enterotoxicity are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of nano-selenium on mitigating cadmium toxicity and safeguarding the integrity of the intestinal barrier. For a total of two cycles, we subjected 6-week-old C57 mice to chronic colitis by exposing them to Cd and nano-selenium for two weeks, followed by DSS water for one week. The application of nano-selenium mitigated the intensity of colitis and alleviated inflammation in the colon. Nano-selenium enhanced the diversity of the intestinal flora, elevated the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in feces, and improved the integrity of the intestinal barrier. In summary, nano-Se may reduce intestinal inflammation by regulating the growth of intestinal microorganisms and protecting the intestinal barrier.

Synergistic benefits of dietary silymarin and selenium on growth, immune functions, antioxidants, and gut/liver health of Thinlip mullet (Liza ramada) juveniles

Abstract This study investigates the synergistic impact of silymarin (SI) levels combined with inorganic selenium (sodium selenite: Se) on growth, feed utilization, biochemical parameters, antioxidants, innate immunity, intestinal and liver histology, and gene expression of Thinlip mullet (Liza ramada) juveniles. The experimental design involved thinlip mullets initially weighing 3.5±0.13 g, distributed in a completely randomized design with 30 fish per hapa (0.5 × 0.5 × 1 m), and conducted in triplicate over 60 days. Seven experimental diets were employed, including a control (without SI and Se supplementation), a negative control (with only Se supplementation), and four treatments with varying levels of silymarin (250, 450, 650, 850 mg/kg) alongside selenium (0.5 mg/kg diet). The growth performance results highlighted significant enhancements in final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate, particularly in the SI 850 mg/kg + Se treatment. Survival rates, feed intake, and feed conversion ratios showed positive trends across the SI-Se supplemented groups. Biochemical profiles of serum exhibited that the control diet-induced elevated concentrations of glucose, cholesterol, Alanine aminotransferase, Aspartate aminotransferase, and urea, while Se or SI supplementation significantly mitigated these levels, with the lowest concentrations observed in the SI-Se supplemented groups. Moreover, SI supplementation increased serum protein content. Antioxidant enzyme activities, represented by superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and catalase (GPx), demonstrated notable improvements in the SI-Se fortified groups, with significantly elevated GPx activity compared to the Se-supplemented and control groups. Immune system responses, including lysozyme, bactericidal, Nitro-blue Tetrazolium (NBT%), and serum alternative complement pathway (ACH50) activities, were highest in the SI-Se augmented groups. SI and Se in L. ramada reduce liver pro-inflammatory gene expression (il-1β, hepcidin) vs. control group. Histological examinations of the intestine and liver depicted structural enhancements, especially at moderate and high levels of SI with Se supplementation. The results indicate improved intestinal villi morphology and hepatic architecture, supporting the positive influence of dietary treatments on the health of thinlip mullet juveniles. In conclusion, the combined supplementation of SI at 850 mg/kg diet and Se at 0.5 mg/kg diet positively influenced the growth, biochemical profiles, antioxidant status, immune responses, gene expression, and histological integrity of Thinlip mullet juveniles, providing valuable insights for optimizing aquafeed formulations.

Sodium selenite enhances the production of functional proteins and biomass in Chlorella pyrenoidosa 038F by promoting acetate assimilation under heterotrophic cultivation

Unicellular microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa is an excellent source of protein, but its ability to produce functional proteins has received less attention. In this study, a strategy to enhance the levels of functional proteins and biomass, by adding sodium selenite under heterotrophic cultivation, is reported for C. pyrenoidosa 038F. Activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase were significantly enhanced by 1.94-, 1.90- and 32.73-fold, respectively, in C. pyrenoidosa 038F exposed to 20 mg/L of sodium selenite. Further, western blot analysis confirmed that sodium selenite promoted the synthesis of glutathione peroxidase, which might be due to the up-regulation of peroxisome and selenocysteine-synthesis-related genes. Sodium selenite also increased biomass, the content of protein and soluble sugar by 1.32-, 1.29-, 1.46-fold, respectively. Subsequent transcriptomic analysis confirmed that cellular respiration and the gluconeogenesis pathway were enhanced. This study highlights the potential use of heterotrophic C. pyrenoidosa 038F as a novel selenoprotein-rich carrier while simultaneously producing soluble sugar and biomass. These results might be helpful for increasing economic production of C. pyrenoidosa under heterotrophic cultivation.

Three accelerated methods based on microwave, hydrothermal and conventional heating in the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles using garlic aqueous extract: Screening and characterization

Selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) have unique biological characteristics, including anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, the green synthesis of Se NPs using plant extracts, due to their natural reductant and stabilizer molecules, can intensify the process with minimal toxic effects on the human body and the environment. Se NPs have been synthesized using an aqueous extract of garlic and three accelerated heating methods based on microwave (800 W for 2.5 min), hydrothermal (temperature and pressure of 121 ºC and 1.5 atm, for 15 min) and conventional (at 150 ºC for 1 h) heating using a heater with stirring. Solution mixtures containing 20 mL of the prepared extract and 5 mL of sodium selenite solution (10 mM) were exposed to these three mentioned heating methods. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering analysis and transmission electron microscopy were used to assess characteristics of the formed Se NPs. The results showed that the fabricated Se NPs via microwave, autoclave and conventional heating methods had minimum particle size (107 nm) and polydispersity index (0.155), and maximum zeta potential (-38.7 mV) values. Furthermore, the spherical formed Se NPs using garlic extract and under microwave, conventional and autoclave heating methods had antioxidant activity of 44.2, 34.8 and 32.6 %, respectively. The formed Se NPs also indicated high antibacterial activity toward Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria strains.

Selenium-Enriched E. coli Bacteria Mitigate the Age-Associated Degeneration of Cholinergic Neurons in C. elegans.

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for humans and animals, but high-dose supplementation with Se compounds, most notably selenite, may exert cytotoxic and other adverse effects. On the other hand, bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), are capable of reducing selenite to red elemental Se that may serve as a safer Se source. Here, we examined how a diet of Se-enriched E. coli bacteria affected vital parameters and age-associated neurodegeneration in the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The growth of E. coli OP50 for 48 h in medium supplemented with 1 mM sodium selenite resulted in reddening of the bacterial culture, accompanied by Se accumulation in the bacteria. Compared to nematodes supplied with the standard E. coli OP50 diet, the worms fed on Se-enriched bacteria were smaller and slimmer, even though their food intake was not diminished. Nevertheless, given the choice, the nematodes preferred the standard diet. The fecundity of the worms was not affected by the Se-enriched bacteria, even though the production of progeny was somewhat delayed. The levels of the Se-binding protein SEMO-1, which serves as a Se buffer in C. elegans, were elevated in the group fed on Se-enriched bacteria. The occurrence of knots and ruptures within the axons of cholinergic neurons was lowered in aged nematodes provided with Se-enriched bacteria. In conclusion, C. elegans fed on Se-enriched E. coli showed less age-associated neurodegeneration, as compared to nematodes supplied with the standard diet.

Effects of Selenium on the Lignin Deposition Pattern and Stem Mechanical Properties of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.).

Lignin provides structural support to plants; however, it reduces their utilization rate. According to our previous studies, selenium (Se) reduces lignin accumulation in alfalfa, but the specific mechanism involved remains unclear. Therefore, at the seedling stage, four root irrigation treatments using 2.5, 50, and 5 μmol/L sodium selenite (S-RI), selenomethionine (SS-RI), Se nanoparticles (SSS-RI), and deionized water (CK-RI) were performed. At the branching stage, four treatments of foliar spraying with the three Se fertilizers described above at a concentration of 0.5 mmol/L (S-FS, SS-FS, and SSS-FS) and deionized water (CK-FS) were administered. The results revealed that all Se treatments chiefly reduced the level of deposition of syringyl (S) lignin in the first internode of alfalfa stems. SS-FS and SSS-FS treatments mainly reduced the deposition of S and guaiacyl (G) lignins in the sixth internode of alfalfa stems, respectively, while S-FS treatment only slightly reduced the deposition of G lignin. S, SS, and SSS-RI treatments reduced the level of deposition of S and G lignins in the sixth internode of alfalfa stems. Se application increased plant height, stem diameter, epidermis (cortex) thickness, primary xylem vessel number (diameter), and pith diameter of alfalfa but decreased primary xylem area and pith parenchyma cell wall thickness of the first internode, and SS(SSS)-FS treatment reduced the mechanical strength of alfalfa stems. Therefore, Se application could decrease lignin accumulation by regulating the organizational structure parameters of alfalfa stems and the deposition pattern of the lignin monomers.

Antioxidant Effects of Selenium Nanoparticles Prepared from Eruca Sativa Extract on Ketoconazole –Induced Testicular Oxidative Damage in Male Rats

Background: Recent studies have shown that the anti-fertility effects of Ketoconazole can be minimized by taking an antioxidant nanoparticles based-plant extract in combination with the medication or by taking it after medication. One of the effective methods to improve its medicinal properties and decrease the toxicities of Selenium is by formulating it as nanoparticles. However, this is still a challenging strategy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of nano selenium, which was prepared from Eruca Sativa extract, on testicular oxidative stress parameters in rats that were treated with ketoconazole. The study will focus on the evaluation of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde as indicators of oxidative stress. Methods: In this study,  a 1% w/v solution of  plant extract was added to a solution of 10mM sodium selenite in different ratios, and placed on a magnetic stirrer in the dark for 12 hours at a temperature 50Cº and pH9. The solution was then left for 48 hours, and the optimal fabricated selenium nanoparticles were selected for further characterization. forty-eight rats were divided into six groups with eight animals in each. Group A was the negative control, while Group B was given oral Ketoconazole at a dose of 50mg/kg for fourteen days. Group BC, BD, BE1 and BE2 were given oral Ketoconazole at a dose of 50 mg/kg for fourteen days, followed by 200mg/kg Eruca Sativa, 0.5mg/kg oral sodium selenite, 0.25mg/kg oral nano selenium and 0.5mg/kg oral nano selenium for 28 days, respectively. Finally, the animals were euthanized and their testicle anti-oxidant parameters were evaluated.     Results: Significant increases in glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase ( p value &lt; 0.001), and a decrease in malondialdehyde levels ( p value &lt; 0.001)  were observed in groups treated with nanoparticles compared to control group. Conclusion: Nano forms of prepared by Eruca sativa extract exhibit significant antioxidant effects on testicular tissues, while being available for several metabolic, biological, and physiological functions.

On-line determination of selenium compounds in tea infusion by extractive electrospray ionization mass spectrometry combined with a heating reaction device

Selenium is one of the important trace elements in the human body. Its deficiency will directly affect human health. With people's attention to health, the content of selenium in food has gradually attracted attention. However, detecting selenium compounds in complex samples remains a challenge. In this work, we built an online heating-reaction device. This device combines the electrospray extraction ionization mass spectrometry (EESI-MS) with the heating reaction device, which can simultaneously detect various selenium compounds in complex liquid samples. Under acidic conditions, the sample was heated and catalyzed by a heating reaction device, so that the SeO32− and O-phenylenediamine (OPD) could generate 1,3-dihydro-2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole. Based on the above reactions, we can detect organic selenium, inorganic selenium and other compounds in liquid samples by organic mass spectrometry. In this experiment, we determined the content of three forms of selenium: selenomethionine (SeMet), L-selenocystine (SeCys(2)), and sodium selenite. The calibration curves for SeMet, SeCys(2), and sodium selenite showed strong linearity within a range of 0.50-50.00 μg/L. The limits of detection (LOD) for the three compounds were 0.22 μg/L, 0.27 μg/L, and 0.41 μg/L, respectively. The limits of quantification (LOQ) were 0.68 μg/L, 0.81 μg/L, and 1.23 μg/L, respectively. Spiked recoveries at three levels ranged from 98.8% to 106.1%. In addition, this method can simultaneously detect three selenium compounds and three other specific chemical components in tea infusion samples, providing a rapid and efficient method for identifying tea quality.

Selenium enriched bifidobacteria and lactobacilli as potential dietary supplements.

In this study, we tested the ability of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria strains to accumulate and biotransform sodium selenite into various selenium species, including selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). Selenium tolerance and cytotoxicity of selenized strains towards human adenocarcinoma Caco-2 and HT29 cells were determined for all tested strains. Furthermore, the influence of selenium enrichment on the antioxidant activity of selenized strains and hydrophobicity of the bacterial cell surfaces were evaluated. Both hydrophobicity and antioxidant activity increased significantly in the selenized L. paracasei strain and decreased significantly in the selenized L. helveticus strain. The concentrations of 5 and 10mg/L Na2SeO3 in the growth media were safer for Caco-2 and HT29 cell growth than higher concentrations. At higher concentrations (30, 50, and 100mg/L), the cell viability was reduced. All the tested strains showed differences in antioxidant potential and hydrophobicity after selenium enrichment. In addition to selenocystine ​​and selenomethionine, the tested bacterial strains produced significant amounts of SeNPs. Our results show that the tested bacterial strains can accumulate and biotransform inorganic selenium, which allows them to become a potential source of selenium.

Regulating Effect of Sodium Selenite Addition on Seed Germination and Growth of Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) Under Mixed Salt Stress

Regulating Effect of Sodium Selenite Addition on Seed Germination and Growth of Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) Under Mixed Salt Stress

Txnrd2 Attenuates Early Brain Injury by Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress via Trx2/Prx3 Pathway after Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Rats

Thioredoxin-reductase 2 (Txnrd2) belongs to the thioredoxin-reductase family of selenoproteins and is a key antioxidant enzyme in mammalian cells to regulate redox homeostasis. Here, we reported that Txnrd2 exerted a major influence in brain damage caused by Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) by suppressing endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress oxidative stress and via Trx2/Prx3 pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrated that pharmacological selenium (Se) rescued the brain damage after ICH by enhancing Txnrd2 expression. Primarily, expression and localization of Txnrd2, Trx2 and Prx3 were determined in collagenase IV-induced ICH model. Txnrd2 was then knocked down using siRNA interference in rats which were found to develop more severe encephaledema and neurological deficits. Mechanistically, we observed that loss of Txnrd2 leads to increased lipid peroxidation levels and ER stress protein expression in neurons and astrocytes. Additionally, it was revealed that Se effectively restored the expression of Txnrd2 in brain and inhibited both the activity of ER stress protein activity and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by promoting Trx2/Prx3 kilter when administrating sodium selenite in lateral ventricle. This study shed light on the effect of Txnrd2 in regulating oxidative stress and ER stress via Trx2/Prx3 pathway upon ICH and its promising potential as an ICH therapeutic target.

Layered double hydroxide for slowing selenium fertilizer release and improving selenium utilization efficiency in vegetables

Selenium (Se) is a beneficial plant micronutrient, and the application of Se fertilizers can promote plant growth and enhance the Se content in crops. However, traditional soluble Se fertilizers have low utilization efficiency of Se due to adsorption or leaching. Here, selenite (SeO32−) -intercalated Mg/Al layered double hydroxide (Se-Mg/Al) for SeO32− slow-release was synthesized by co-precipitation and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Se-Mg/Al possessed a typical lamellar structure, combining with selenite by electrostatic interaction in interlayer and chemisorption on the surface. The release mechanism of selenite in distilled water from Mg/Al layered double hydroxide (Mg/Al LDH) was Fickian diffusion with gradually released 97.86% after 20 h (Over 90% within 2 h for sodium selenite). At pH range 4.0–8.0, Se-Mg/Al had a stable slow-release ability. And, the sulfate and phosphate anions could effectively trigger the release of selenite through anions exchange. The pot experiments showed that Se-Mg/Al increased Se content of vegetables, more than twice that of directly using sodium selenite. Compared with control treatment, the average stem height and fresh weight per 10 plants with Se-Mg/Al treatment improved approximately 1.48 times and 2.34 times, respectively. This work provides a feasible way for achieving crops selenium supplementation and improving selenium utilization efficiency.

Effects of three exogenous phytohormones on the growth, selenium absorption, and metabolism of the microalga Parachlorella kessleri under sodium selenite stress

Treatment of selenium (Se)-laden wastewater using microalgae has gained attention as it is environmentally friendly and cost effective; however, most microalgae are intolerant to Se. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of alleviating Se stress in Parachlorella kessleri exposed to 8 mg/L Na2SeO3 using indoleacetic acid (IAA), gibberellin (GA3), and melatonin (MT) and to explore the effects of their concentrations (5–80 μM) on the growth adaptability and Se biotransformation efficiency of P. kessleri. The results showed that the alleviation of Se4+ stress depended on the type and concentration of phytohormone used; MT conferred the best protection against Se4+ stress, followed by GA3 and IAA. The 20-μM MT treatment produced the highest algal biomass and chlorophyll a content, i.e., the algal biomass and chlorophyll a content increased by 102.68 % and 232.68 %, respectively, compared with that in the negative control (Se4+ stress). This increase was attributed to the enhancement of MT-induced antioxidant capacity of P. kessleri, which increased the endogenous ascorbic acid and glutathione content and decreased the superoxide anion content, thereby reducing the damage caused by membrane peroxidation. Most importantly, MT effectively promoted the absorption of Se4+ by P. kessleri while enhancing Se volatilization metabolism, alleviating Se toxicity by reducing the excessive accumulation of Se in cells, and increasing the removal efficiency of Se in the medium up to 84.63 %. Although MT reduced Se accumulation in biomass, the organic Se proportion remained >97 % and predominantly in the form of selenomethionine. These results demonstrated that MT has immense potential to alleviate Se4+-induced stress in P. kessleri and can be used as an effective regulatory strategy to promote microalgae-based resourceful treatment of Se-laden wastewater and gain insights into the mechanisms underlying the alleviation of Se toxicity.

Transcriptome and co-expression network revealed molecular mechanism underlying selenium response of foxtail millet (Setaria italica).

Selenium-enriched foxtail millet (Setaria italica) represents a functional cereal with significant health benefits for humans. This study endeavors to examine the impact of foliar application of sodium selenite (Na2SeO4) on foxtail millet, specifically focusing on selenium (Se) accumulation and transportation within various plant tissues. To unravel the molecular mechanisms governing selenium accumulation and transportation in foxtail millet, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of selenium content and transcriptome responses in foxtail millet spikelets across different days (3, 5, 7, and 12) under Na2SeO4 treatment (200 μmol/L). Foxtail millet subjected to selenium fertilizer exhibited significantly elevated selenium levels in each tissue compared to the untreated control. Selenate was observed to be transported and accumulated sequentially in the leaf, stem, and spikes. Transcriptome analysis unveiled a substantial upregulation in the transcription levels of genes associated with selenium metabolism and transport, including sulfate, phosphate, and nitrate transporters, ABC transporters, antioxidants, phytohormone signaling, and transcription factors. These genes demonstrated intricate interactions, both synergistic and antagonistic, forming a complex network that regulated selenate transport mechanisms. Gene co-expression network analysis highlighted three transcription factors in the tan module and three transporters in the turquoise module that significantly correlated with selenium accumulation and transportation. Expression of sulfate transporters (SiSULTR1.2b and SiSULTR3.1a), phosphate transporter (PHT1.3), nitrate transporter 1 (NRT1.1B), glutathione S-transferase genes (GSTs), and ABC transporter (ABCC13) increased with SeO4 2- accumulation. Transcription factors MYB, WRKY, and bHLH were also identified as players in selenium accumulation. This study provides preliminary insights into the mechanisms of selenium accumulation and transportation in foxtail millet. The findings hold theoretical significance for the cultivation of selenium-enriched foxtail millet.

Effects of Supplementing Selenium-Enriched Cardamine violifolia to Laying Hens on Egg Quality and Yolk Antioxidant Capacity during Storage at 4 °C and 25 °C.

Oxidative stress occurs in the process of egg storage. Antioxidants as feed additives can enhance egg quality and extend the shelf life of eggs. Selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) has strongly antioxidant properties. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of dietary supplementation with SEC on egg quality and the yolk antioxidant capacity of eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C. Four hundred fifty 65-week-old, Roman hens that were similar in laying rate (90.79 ± 1.69%) and body weight (2.19 ± 0.23 kg) were divided into 5 groups. The birds were fed diets supplemented with 0 mg/kg selenium (Se) (CON), 0.3 mg/kg Se from sodium selenite (SS), 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEY), 0.3 mg/kg Se for selenium-enriched Cardamine violifolia (SEC) or 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched Cardamine violifolia and 0.3 mg/kg Se from Se-enriched yeast (SEC + SEY) for 8 weeks. The eggs were collected on the 8th week and were analyzed for egg quality and oxidative stability of yolk during storage at 4 °C or 25 °C for 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks. Dietary SEC and SEC + SEY supplementation increased the Haugh unit (HU) and albumen foam stability in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). SS and SEC supplementation increased the yolk index in eggs stored at 25 °C (p < 0.05). SEC or SEC + SEY slowed down an increase in albumen pH and gel firmness in eggs stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). Moreover, SEC or SEC + SEY alleviated the increase in malonaldehyde (MDA), and the decrease in total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) level and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) activity in yolks stored at 4 °C and 25 °C (p < 0.05). These results indicate that SEC mitigated egg quality loss and improved the antioxidant capacity of yolks during storage. SEC supplementation would be advantageous to extend the shelf life of eggs.

Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles From Clove and Their Toxicity Effect and Anti-angiogenic, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Potential.

Introduction Nanoparticles, owing to their minuscule size, have become pivotal in diverse scientific endeavors, presenting unique characteristics with applications spanning medicine to environmental science. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) exhibit potential in diverse biomedical uses. Aim This research investigates the potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties of SeNPs, which are synthesized using the green synthesis method. This eco-friendly approach aligns with sustainable practices and utilizes clove extract (Syzygium aromaticum). Materials and methods Clove extract facilitates SeNPsynthesis via sodium selenite reduction. The characterization methods comprised Fourier-transforminfrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV-VIS spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Assessments coveredantioxidant properties, chorioallantoic membrane assay (CAM) assay for antiangiogenic effects, toxicity evaluation, and antibacterial assays. Results Successful synthesis of SeNPswas verified by a UV-visible absorption peakat 256 nm and FTIR peaks around 3500-500 cm-1, and the spherical morphology was confirmed by SEM analysis with EDAX, which indicated the presence of SeNPs and their unique properties. Phytochemical substances are active chemicals that contribute to the properties of SeNPs. The SeNPs exhibited antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 0.437 µg/mL and antibacterial properties against bacterial pathogenSalmonella species, with a zone of inhibition measuring 19 mm.The CAM assay demonstrated possible antiangiogenic actions, and toxicity testing on Artemia nauplii showed biocompatibility. Conclusion This study underscores the efficient synthesis of SeNPs using clove extract, emphasizing their potential applications. The notable properties of SeNPs emphasize their promise for diverse biomedical and environmental uses.

Improvement of Antioxidative Activity of Broiler Muscles after Dietary Modulation with Selenium and Methionine

Abstract The objective of the study was to compare the antioxidative capacity of broiler chicken breast and leg muscles after dietary modulation with selenium (Se) and methionine (Met). Free radical scavenging (ABTS, DPPH) and iron reduction (FRAP) activities were determined as the total antioxidative potential (TEAC), as well the enzyme activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), in relation to concentrations of lipid peroxidation end products (TBARS). Analyses were performed on breast m. pectoralis superficialis and profundus individually and together. The studied leg muscles included biceps femoris, gastrocnemicus, iliotiobialis, peroneus longus, sartorius, semimembranosus, semitendinosus and all leg muscles together. Flex broiler chickens were fed diets supplemented with 6.7, 8.2, 9.7 and 11.2 g DL-methionine/kg feed and Se as sodium selenite and selenized yeast at 0.26, 0.38 and 0.50 mg Se/kg. Greater TEAC and enzyme activities were observed in leg than in breast muscles. Selenium did not change TEAC in muscles sets, but improved antiradical capacity in the pectoralis major and minor, sartorius and biceps femoris. The highest level of methionine increased TEAC in individual leg muscles. Selenium and methionine at the highest concentrations increased SOD activity in the entire group and individual muscles, while Se raised GPx activity. In conclusion, the diet supplementation with selenium and high concentrations of methionine had a greater impact on the antioxidative potential of individual than the whole set of chicken breast and leg muscles. The positive effect of the studied diet modulation could raise the quality and extend the shelf-life of fresh chicken meat.