Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Selenium-Containing Agents: Their Role in the Regulation of Defense Mechanisms against COVID-19

Abstract

The review presents the latest data on the role of selenium-containing agents in the regulation of diseases of the immune system. We mainly considered the contributions of selenium-containing compounds such as sodium selenite, methylseleninic acid, selenomethionine, and methylselenocysteine, as well as selenoproteins and selenium nanoparticles in the regulation of defense mechanisms against various viral infections, including coronavirus infection (COVID-19). A complete description of the available data for each of the above selenium compounds and the mechanisms underlying the regulation of immune processes with the active participation of these selenium agents, as well as their therapeutic and pharmacological potential, is presented. The main purpose of this review is to systematize the available information, supplemented by data obtained in our laboratory, on the important role of selenium compounds in all of these processes. In addition, the presented information makes it possible to understand the key differences in the mechanisms of action of these compounds, depending on their chemical and physical properties, which is important for obtaining a holistic picture and prospects for creating drugs based on them.

Oral Cholecalciferol Supplementation in Sahara Black People with Chronic Kidney Disease Modulates Cytokine Storm, Oxidative Stress Damage and Athero-Thromboembolic Risk

“…The ROS neutralization is conducted primarily by AES through antioxidant trace elements (ATE) integrated as AES cofactors, such as selenium (Se), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn). Recently, it has been shown that selenium (Se) plays a crucial role through immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties [ 17 ]. 25OH D (vitamin D 3 ) plays an essential role between immune system and kidney, as immune cells express 1-alpha-hydroxylase to regulate local 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D 3 or calcitriol (active form) concentration [ 18 ].…”

Novel Organoselenium Redox Modulators with Potential Anticancer, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Activities

“…Recently, OSe compounds were thoroughly used as redox modulators to control many complicated diseases (e.g., cancer and neurodegenerative diseases) [ 33 , 49 ]. The DPPH and ABTS bioassays were extensively used as rapid tools for estimating the antioxidant potency of OSe compounds [ 50 , 51 ].…”

“…Within this regard, 9 exhibited superior activity to 6 and similar antimicrobial potential to ampicillin and clotrimazole drugs with MICs of 0.5, 1, and 2 µM against E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans strains, respectively. Recently, OSe compounds were thoroughly used as redox modulators to control many complicated diseases (e.g., cancer and neurodegenerative diseases) [33,49]. The DPPH and ABTS bioassays were extensively used as rapid tools for estimating the antioxidant potency of OSe compounds [50,51].…”

Advances in the Study of the Mechanism by Which Selenium and Selenoproteins Boost Immunity to Prevent Food Allergies

“…Increasing dietary Se intake enhances Ca 2+ flux and downstream cell signaling in CD4+ T cells, thereby significantly affecting their activation, proliferation, and differentiation [ 83 ]. The importance of adequate dietary selenium levels and its effective binding to selenoproteins for immunity has been demonstrated in cell culture models, rodent models, livestock and poultry studies, and human studies [ 8 ]. In the study of Ivory et al, Se supplementation (100 μg/day) increased plasma Se concentrations and increased T-cell proliferation and percentage of total T cells in adult human subjects [ 84 ].…”

“…It is reported that inorganic selenium species are more toxic, and the concentration range between insufficient and excess intake is quite narrow [ 7 ]. Therefore, both the form and dose of Se intake are critical for individuals’ health, and detailed studies are needed due to the available data on toxic doses of Se [ 8 ]. Selenium and its compounds, such as selenomethionine, sodium selenite, and methyl selenocysteine, have more potent anticancer and antioxidant effects at high doses [ 9 ].…”