Abstract
- Background
Selenium is an essential nutrient that has gained significant attention for its impact on the human immune system. The purpose of this review is to explore the immunomodulatory properties of selenium and provide up-to-date information to facilitate the emergence of novel therapeutic applications.
- Methods
This review synthesizes current scientific evidence regarding the acquisition of selenium—through dietary ingestion, supplementation, or nanoparticle applications—and evaluates its subsequent biological mechanisms and pathways within the human immune system.
- Results
Different forms of selenium beneficially modulate the immune system by enhancing antioxidant activity, optimizing innate immune responses, improving adaptive immunity, and promoting a healthy gut microbiota. Through these diverse mechanisms, targeted selenium supplementation can aid in the prevention and management of pathogenic infections, autoimmune diseases, and various cancers.
- Conclusions
Selenium serves as a key micronutrient with versatile clinical applications, supporting comprehensive disease management through its potent immunomodulatory effects. Further research is warranted to establish precise and safe dosing guidelines, mitigate toxicity risks, and refine its therapeutic application in medical treatments.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11479232/