Selenium and mercury in organisms: Interactions and mechanisms

Abstract

This paper reviews the growing literature dealing with the antagonistic effect of selenium (Se) compounds on the toxicity of mercury (Hg) compounds in higher animals and organisms present in the aquatic environment. It covers both laboratory and field studies and summarizes the possible mechanisms that explain the protective action of Se compounds on mercuric mercury (Hg2+) and methylmercury (CH3Hg+) toxicity. The review is subdivided according to the molecular form of Hg and the organisms in which the antagonism has been studied. Many authors suggest that the protective effect of selenite on the toxicity of Hg2+in mammals is due mainly to the in vivo formation of mercuric selenide (HgSe), a stable and biologically inert complex. The detection of HgSe has been confirmed in several studies in support of this mechanism. Possible mechanisms that may be involved in the antagonism between Se compounds and CH3Hg+in mammals and aquatic organisms are also presented. The possibility of adding Se compounds to contaminated lakes and reservoirs as a remediation technique to limit the bioaccumulation of Hg2+and CH3Hg+is critically discussed.

Dietary and tissue selenium in relation to methylmercury toxicity

“…Although this advice will clearly limit risks associated with maternal methylmercury exposure, it may also deny beneficial effects of seafood consumption on child development (Hibbeln et al, 2007;Budtz-Jørgensen et al, 2007;Lederman et al, 2008). In this regard, selenium (Se), a nutrient that is abundant in ocean fish and known to be highly active in counteracting mercury toxicity (see reviews by Cuvin-Aralar and Furness, 1991;Yang et al, 2008), deserves special consideration.…”

Application of stable isotope mixing models for defining trophic biomagnification pathways of mercury and selenium

“…Se as a micronutrient is taken up, stored, and distributed as required by organisms (Yang et al 2008). It is known to reduce Hg toxicity when at molar advantage (Peterson et al 2009).…”

Effects of Tender Coconut Water on Antioxidant Enzymatic Superoxida Dismutase (SOD), CATALASE (CAT), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and Lipid Peroxidation In Mercury Exposure Workers

“…42 Mercury has strong affinity to bind selenium, 22 and both are antagonis. 43 Giving tender coconut water for workers exposed to mercury can be used as a source of selenium to increase the activity of GPx. …”