The Role of Selenium in Atherosclerosis Development, Progression, Prevention and Treatment

Abstract

Selenium is an essential trace element that is essential for various metabolic processes, protection from oxidative stress and proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. Se deficiency has long been associated with multiple cardiovascular diseases, including endemic Keshan’s disease, common heart failure, coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction and atherosclerosis. Through selenoenzymes and selenoproteins, Se is involved in numerous crucial processes, such as redox homeostasis regulation, oxidative stress, calcium flux and thyroid hormone metabolism; an unbalanced Se supply may disrupt these processes. In this review, we focus on the importance of Se in cardiovascular health and provide updated information on the role of Se in specific processes involved in the development and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, vascular calcification and vascular cell apoptosis). We also discuss recent randomised trials investigating Se supplementation as a potential therapeutic and preventive agent for atherosclerosis treatment.

Machine learning models identify micronutrient intake as predictors of undiagnosed hypertension among rural community-dwelling older adults in Thailand: a cross-sectional study

“…Selenium was assumed to protect against hypertension since it is an essential trace element with antioxidant properties ( 46 ). Selenium is a crucial component of glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that prevents lipid oxidation and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques by preventing vascular smooth muscle cell migration, blood clot formation, and platelet aggregation ( 47 ). A direct relationship between selenium and hypertension can be seen in Keshan disease ( 48 ).…”

The Role of Trace Elements in Cardiovascular Diseases

“…The Se-containing protein glutathione peroxidase exhibits central roles in regulating the physiological antioxidant status and plays additional roles in the thyroid metabolism and regulation of the immune response [ 39 ]. Reduced glutathione peroxidase activity could be related to the generation of toxic lipid peroxides, leading to endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness [ 40 , 41 , 42 ].…”

“…Reduced glutathione peroxidase activity could be related to the generation of toxic lipid peroxides, leading to endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness [40][41][42].…”

Molecular Linkage between Immune System Disorders and Atherosclerosis

“…Se uses selenoenzymes and selenoproteins to oversee redox homeostasis and control free radical damage, Ca 2+ flow, and thyroid hormone metabolism. These processes can be disrupted by selenium deficiency [125].…”