Association of selenium and selenoprotein-P with markers of systemic inflammation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Backgrounds: Although the anti-inflammatory effects of Selenium (Se) have received significant attention, its contribution to systematic inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients has not been studied before. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the correlations between Se and Selenoprotein P (SELENOP) with inflammatory markers in women with PCOS. Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data from 125 females aged 18-45 diagnosed with PCOS according to the Rotterdam Consensus Criteria. Relevant questionnaires were used to gather necessary information on socio-demographic factors and physical activity. To assess systemic inflammation, the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and nuclear factor k-B (NF-kB) were measured. Results: Serum Se levels were found to be inversely correlated with serum levels of IL-6 (r=-228, p=0.010), TNF-α (r=-236, p=0.008), and NF-кB p65 (r=-282, p=0.001). Additionally, there were significant inverse associations between serum SELENOP levels and IL-6 (r=-208, p=0.020), TNF-α (r=-279, p=0.002), and NF-кB p65 (r=-249, p=0.005) serum levels. No significant correlation was found between Se or SELENOP levels and hs-CRP or IL-1β. Conclusions: In conclusion, serum levels of Se and SELENOP were inversely correlated with inflammatory markers. Future prospective cohort studies are advised to further assess these findings.