Effect of selenium supplementation on lipid profile in hemodialysis patients

Selenium supplementation in chronic kidney disease patients undergoing haemodialysis: a systematic review of the effects on plasma selenium, antioxidant and inflammatory markers, immunological parameters and thyroid hormones

Selenium (Se) is a mineral with several biological functions, and studies have shown that its deficiency can be linked to many complications in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aims to systematically review the effects of Se supplementation in patients with CKD undergoing haemodialysis (HD). This systematic review was carried out according to the PRISMA statement. Clinical trials were searched in PubMed, Lilacs, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases from inception to July 2021 and updated in July 2024. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021231444). Two independent reviewers performed the study screening and data extraction, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Thirteen studies were included in this review. Only nine studies showed results on Se levels; in all, reduced Se levels were observed before supplementation. A positive effect of supplementation on plasma Se level was demonstrated. Of the ten studies analysed, six demonstrated positive effects on antioxidant and inflammatory markers. Only one study analysed immunological parameters, showing a positive impact. From two studies that analysed thyroid hormones, only one showed positive results. All studies were classified as high risk of bias. The findings suggest that Se supplementation significantly increases plasma Se levels in these patients; however, there are still not enough studies to clarify the effects of Se supplementation on the antioxidant and inflammatory markers, immune system and thyroid hormones. Further studies are needed to elucidate the effects of Se supplementation and to provide a recommendation for patients with CKD undergoing HD.

Effects of Selenium Administration on Blood Lipids: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Experimental Human Studies

CONTEXT

Overexposure to the essential trace element selenium has been associated with adverse metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, hypertension, and diabetes. However, dose-response meta-analyses analyzing the effects of selenium administration on the lipid profile in experimental human studies are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

Through a restricted cubic spline regression meta-analysis, the dose-response relation between the dose of selenium administered or blood selenium concentrations at the end of the trials and changes over time in blood lipids, ie, total, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides was assessed.

DATA SOURCES

Searches were performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from inception up to January 11, 2025 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the impact of selenium supplementation on blood lipid profiles among adults.

DATA EXTRACTION

A total of 27 eligible RCTs that enrolled healthy individuals, pregnant individuals, and participants with specific health conditions were identified and the relevant data was extracted.

DATA ANALYSIS

Dose-response analysis indicated that selenium administration at and above 200 µg/day decreased HDL and LDL cholesterol and increased triglyceride levels. Blood selenium concentrations at the end of the trial above approximately 150 µg/L were positively associated with triglyceride and LDL cholesterol concentrations, and inversely associated with HDL cholesterol. Inorganic selenium supplementation showed stronger associations than organic selenium. At the lowest levels of baseline intake, selenium supplementation appeared instead to have beneficial effects on the lipid profile, with an overall indication of U-shaped curves, apart from HDL-cholesterol. The adverse effects of selenium were stronger in studies involving healthy participants as compared with unhealthy participants and pregnant females, in those having a longer duration of the intervention, particularly more than 3 months, and in European populations at selenium intake levels of above 300 µg/day.

CONCLUSIONS

In this dose-response meta-analysis of experimental human studies, an adverse effect of selenium administration on blood lipids at levels around or above the current upper level of intake was observed.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration No. CRD42022380432.

Effect of selenium supplementation on hemodialysis patients: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Hemodialysis (HD) patients commonly experience enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially increasing the risk of malnutrition. Selenium levels are typically lower in HD individuals. Selenium deficiency has been identified as a risk factor for oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Therefore, we intended to perform a meta-analysis to assess the impact of selenium supplementation on HD patients.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of selenium supplementation on HD patients until September 31, 2024. The data analysis was conducted using Stata15.0 software.

RESULTS

Seven RCTs, with 2080 participants, were finally included, with 1029 in the selenium group and 1051 in the control group. The meta-analysis unraveled no statistically significant impact of selenium supplementation on body mass index (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI (- 0.20, 0.49), triglyceride [(SMD = - 0.02, 95% CI (- 0.44, 0.41)], total cholesterol [(SMD = - 0.18, 95%CI (- 0.41, 0.05)], low-density lipoprotein [(SMD = - 0.37, 95% CI (- 1.04, 0.31)], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [(SMD = 0.15, 95% CI (- 0.54, 0.84)], C-reactive protein [(SMD = - 0.10, 95% CI (- 0.46, 0.27)], ferritin [(SMD = - 0.02, 95% CI (- 0.29, 0.26)], Hx-C reactive protein [(SMD = 0.00, 95% CI (- 1.02, 1.03)], and hemoglobin [(SMD = 0.01, 95% CI (- 0.57,0.59)]. Only selenium levels were significantly increased after selenium supplementation [SMD = 2.83, 95% CI (2.43, 3.24)].

CONCLUSION

Selenium supplementation can increase selenium levels in HD patients, without notable impacts on weight, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.

The effects of selenium supplementation on lipid profile in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Dyslipidemia with a considerable progression rate is a primary risk factor for CVDs if left untreated. Dietary interventions have explored the health influences of selenium on lipid profiles in adults, yet the findings remain contentious. This study seeks to determine if selenium supplementation can positively modify the lipid profile (total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in adults.

METHODS

Using predefined keywords, we searched online databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Google Scholar, for relevant studies published from inception through July 2024. A random-effects meta-analysis was then employed to pool the weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95 % CI for outcomes assessed by a minimum of three studies.

RESULTS

Initially 1205 studies were obtained out of which 25 RCTs were decided to be included for further analyses. Selenium supplementation reduced VLDL (WMD: -1.53; 95 % CI: -2.86, -0.20), but did not change TG (WMD: 1.12; 95 % CI: -4.51, 6.74), TC (WMD: -2.25; 95 % CI: -6.80, 2.29), LDL-C (WMD: 1.60; 95 % CI: -4.26, 7.46), and HDL-C levels (WMD: 0.98; 95 % CI: - 0.02, 1.98).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed significantly reduced VLDL but limited effects were observed in other lipid indexes. More extensive RCTs are required globally to achieve a holistic comprehension of the connection between selenium and lipid profile.

A new perspective on selenium's impact on renal function: European population-based analysis of plasma proteome-mediated Mendelian randomization study

Background

The relationship between selenium and renal function has always attracted widespread attention. Increased selenium level has been found to cause impaired renal function in our previous study, but the mechanism is not clear. In this study, we evaluate the potential mediating effects of plasma proteome in the association of selenium level and renal function to understand the mechanisms of selenium's effect on renal function.

Methods

Utilizing two-sample two-step mediating mendelian randomization (MR) methodology to investigate the genetically causal relationship between selenium level and renal function as well as the role of the plasma proteome in mediating them. Additionally, the mediating proteins were enriched and analyzed through bioinformatics to understand the potential mechanisms of selenium effects on renal function.

Results

In the MR analysis, an increase in selenium level was found to decrease estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Specifically, for each standard deviation (SD) increase in selenium levels, eGFR levels are reduced by 0.003 SD [Beta (95% CI): -0.003 (-0.004 ~ -0.001), P=0.001, with no observed heterogeneity and pleiotropy]. Through mediation analysis, 35 proteins have been determined mediating the genetically causal effects of selenium on the levels of eGFR, including Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4), Fibulin-1, Cilia- and flagella-associated protein 45, Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2 (SMAD2), and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase ZNRF3, and the mediation effect rates of these proteins ranged from 1.59% to 23.70%. In the enrichment analysis, 13 signal transduction pathways, including FGFR4 mutant receptor activation and Defective SLC5A5 causing thyroid dyshormonogenesis 1, were involved in the effect of selenium on eGFR levels.

Conclusion

Our finding has revealed the underlying mechanism by which increased selenium level lead to deterioration of renal function, effectively guiding the prevention of chronic kidney disease and paving the way for future studies.

Relationship between heavy metal concentrations and Chronic kidney disease in population of Hoveyzeh cohort study: A cross-sectional study in Iran

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a multifactorial disease whose prevalence is increasing worldwide. CKD affects 700 million to 1 billion people worldwide, with a prevalence of 9.1% to 13.4%. In Iran, the reported prevalence of CKD is 15.14%, even higher than the global prevalence. Some studies introduced heavy metals as possible risk factors of CKD. We conducted the first study in Iran to examine the relationship between 10 selected urinary heavy metals and CKD in the Hovayzeh cohort study population.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, urine samples were collected from two groups of ca ses (suffering from CKD) and controls (without CKD) with equal size (47 people each). Analysis of the 10 sellected heavy metals in the samples was conducted using inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy. Basic Information was obtained from the Howayizeh Cohort Study Center. The data was analyzed using SPSS-26 and Excel-2016 software.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between urinary heavy metal concentrations of case and control groups (P < 0.05). While, the concentration of As, Cr, Cu, Mn, and Ni exceeded the reference limits of Germany, Canada, England, and Belgium. Se and Cd also surpassed the reference limits of England. After adjusting for confounding variables for each μg/l increase in urinary Cd, Ni, Pb, and Se the OR of CKD increased by 20.2%, 4.8%, 3.1%, and 2.6%, respectively. Although, these relationships were not statistically significant. In addition, two groups of heavy metals had a positive and significant correlation: (1) Se, Zn, As, Cu, and Cr; (2) Pb, Cd, and As; and (3) Cd and Ni.

CONCLUSION

we found no significant relationship between urinary heavy metal and CKD. However, there was significant positive correlation in some of urinary heavy metals may indicate their shared resources. Furthermore, the concentration of most heavy metals in the urine of the participants was higher than the reference limits of these metals in the urine of healthy people from other countries. Thus, the elevated levels of these metals could still pose a risk to human health. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct prospective studies with a larger sample size in this area.

Role of Nutrients in Pediatric Non-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease: From Pathogenesis to Correct Supplementation

Nutrition management is fundamental for children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Fluid balance and low-protein and low-sodium diets are the more stressed fields from a nutritional point of view. At the same time, the role of micronutrients is often underestimated. Starting from the causes that could lead to potential micronutrient deficiencies in these patients, this review considers all micronutrients that could be administered in CKD to improve the prognosis of this disease.

Higher Levels of Blood Selenium are Associated with Higher Levels of Serum Lipid Profile in US Adults with CKD: Results from NHANES 2013-2018

The association between selenium (Se) and lipid profile has been controversial in different populations, and the aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between Se and lipid profile in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). A total of 861 US adult patients with CKD (male: female = 404:457) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. We used smoothing spline plots and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses to elucidate the relationships between blood Se and lipid profile. Multivariate adjusted smoothing spline plots showed that higher levels of blood Se were associated with higher levels of serum remnant cholesterol (RC), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Threshold and saturation effects were also observed between serum RC, TC, TG, LDL-C, and blood Se. In multivariate binary logistic regression analyses, the fully adjusted model showed that as blood Se increases by every 1 µg/L, the OR of high RC, high TG and high LDL-C in patients was 1.012 (95% CI: 1.001, 1.023 P = 0.046), 1.011 (95% CI: 1.001, 1.021 P = 0.043) and 1.009 (95% CI: 1.003, 1.016 P = 0.012), respectively. Furthermore, stratified analyses showed that the associations between blood Se and high RC/high TG were significantly stronger in patients aged < 65 years. Higher levels of blood Se were associated with increased serum lipid profile levels and increased risk of high RC, high TC, high LDL-C, and low HDL-C dyslipidemia in adult patients with CKD in the US. However, the real associations between blood Se and lipid profiles in this population should be verified in future prospective and randomized trials.

Blood selenium level can alleviate the nephrotoxicity of lead and cadmium in the general population of the United States: a retrospective cross section analysis of population-based nationally representative data

The current understanding of the interplay between blood selenium, cadmium and lead levels, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is limited. Our objective was to investigate whether elevated blood selenium levels can mitigate the nephrotoxic effects of lead and cadmium. The exposure variables examined in this study include blood selenium, cadmium, and lead levels measured by ICP-MS. The outcome of interest was CKD, defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 60 mL/min/1.73 m². In total, 10630 participants (mean (SD) age:48.9 ± 18.4; 48.3% male) were included in this analysis. The median (IQR) of blood selenium, cadmium, and lead levels was 191 (177-207) μg/L, 0.300 (0.180-0.540) μg/L, and 0.940 (0.570-1.510) μg/dL, respectively. We observed a significant positive association between cadmium and lead levels and CKD (OR; 1.86; 95%CI: 1.31- 2.64; OR:2.23; 95%CI:1.54-3.24). However, selenium had a negative association with CKD (OR:0.096; 95%CI:0.020-0.457). Based on a reference group with a selenium concentration of ≤ 191 μg/L and cadmium level of > 0.300 μg/L, a significant protective factor in the CKD was seen in subjects with high plasma selenium and lower cadmium concentrations (OR:0.685; 95%CI:0.515-0.912). Then selenium concentration of ≤ 191 μg/L and lead level of > 0.940 μg/dL were set as a reference group, and the OR for CKD decreased among the other group (OR:0.564; 95%CI;0.417- 0.762). The subgroup analysis indicated that there were no effect modifiers. Blood selenium has the potential to mitigate the nephrotoxic effects of lead and cadmium in the general population of the United States.

The effects of selenium supplementation on blood lipids and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized control trials

BACKGROUND

Previous studies evaluating the effects of selenium supplementation on lipid profile and blood pressure (BP) offer contradictory findings. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the effects of selenium supplementation on these lipid profile and BP.

METHODS

In order to identify interrelated clinical trials, we performed a comprehensive literature search in the online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and ISI web of science, up to December 2021.

RESULTS

The analysis of the data established that selenium supplementation did not significantly affect TG level (WMD: -0.84 mg/dL; 95 % CI: -4.74, 3.05, p = 0.671), LDL-C (WMD: 0.86 mg/dL; 95 % CI: -1.21, 2.95, p = 0.416), and HDL-C (WMD: 0.3 mg/dL; 95 % CI: -0.66, 1.27, p = 0.535). however, there was a significant reduction in TC levels following selenium supplementation (WMD: -2.11 mg/dL; 95 % CI: -4.09, -0.13, p = 0.037). After subgroup analysis, when the baseline levels of LDL-C were < 130 mg/dL, selenium supplementation elicited a significant increase in LDL-C levels (WMD: 2.89 mg/dL; 95 % CI: 0.26, 5.51, p = 0.031). For BP, selenium supplementation significantly increased SBP (WMD: 2.02 mmHg; 95 % CI: 0.50, 3.55, p = 0.009), while it had no significant effect on DBP (WMD: 0.39 mmHg; 95 % CI: (-0.89, 1.68, p = 0.551)).

CONCLUSION

Although our findings suggest selenium may have possible therapeutic effects in improving TC and VLDL, because of its negative effects on LDL and BP, selenium supplementation for cardiovascular protection should be recommended with caution.

Effects of Selenium on Chronic Kidney Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study

BACKGROUND

Previous observational studies have shown that there is a controversial association between selenium levels and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our aim was to assess the causal relationship between selenium levels and CKD using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

METHODS

We used the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method to analyze the causal role of selenium levels on CKD risk. The variants associated with selenium levels were extracted from a large genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis of circulating selenium levels (n = 5477) and toenail selenium levels (n = 4162) in the European population. Outcome data were from the largest GWAS meta-analysis of European-ancestry participants for kidney function to date. Inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the main analysis and a series of sensitivity analyses were carried out to detect potential violations of MR assumptions.

RESULTS

The MR analysis results indicate that the genetically predicted selenium levels were associated with decreased estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) (effect = -0.0042, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.0053-0.0031, p = 2.186 × 10^-13) and increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (effect = 0.0029, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.0006-0.0052, p = 0.0136) with no pleiotropy detected.

CONCLUSIONS

The MR study indicated that an increased level of selenium is a causative factor for kidney function impairment.

Effect of Selenium Supplementation on Lipid Profile, Anemia, and Inflammation Indices in Hemodialysis Patients

Objective

Trace elements deficiency is common among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients due to excessive loss during dialysis and the lower intake secondary to loss of appetite. Selenium (Se) is a trace element that plays an important role in the radical scavenging system and helps the body defend against oxidative stress. This study aims to evaluate the effects of Se supplementation on lipid profile, anemia, and inflammation indices in ESRD patients.

Methods

Fifty-nine hemodialysis patients enrolled and were randomly divided into two groups. Two hundred microgram Se capsules once daily for the case group and matching placebo for the control group were administered for three months. Demographic data were collected at the study beginning. Uric acid (UA), anemia and inflammation indices, and lipid profiles were recorded at the beginning and the end of the study.

Findings

UA and UA-to-HDL (high-density lipoprotein) ratio decreased significantly in the case group (P < 0.001). The changes in lipid profile were not significant among both groups. Hemoglobin slightly increased in the case group, however, it decreased significantly in the control group (P = 0.031). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) decreased in the case group and increased in the control group, however, none of these changes were significant.

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, selenium supplementation in ESRD patients could reduce some risk factors related to their mortality, such as the ratio of uric acid to HDL. However, the changes related to lipid profile, hemoglobin level and hs-CRP biomarker were not significant.

Effect of Selenium on Triglyceride and Total Cholesterol, Weight Gain, and Physical Activity on Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Double-Blinded Controlled Trial

Background:

End-stage renal disease is one of the most important chronic diseases. Selenium is one of the so-called rare elements which are essential for our body functions. Here, we aimed to investigate and the effects of selenium supplement therapy on weight gain, physical activity, and triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol in patients under hemodialysis.

Methods:

The current study is a double-blinded clinical trial performed on patients with ESRD under hemodialysis in 2019. In the beginning, serum selenium levels were assessed. All patients were randomly divided into two groups. The first group was under treatments with tablets of selenium 400 μg. Patients received selenium tablets three times after each hemodialysis session (3 times a week) and the other group received placebo tablets. 3 months after the beginning of the study, blood selenium levels, TG and total cholesterol, and weight and physical activities of patients were evaluated again and compared with the beginning.

Results:

A total of 78 patients were included. Serum selenium levels at the beginning of our study were 40.06 ± 8.50 in the intervention group and 45.00 ± 8.16 in control groups. Selenium levels and physical activities of patients were increased significantly in intervention group compared to baseline (P < 0.001 for both). Weight, physical activity, total cholesterol, and TG in both intervention and control groups did not change significantly after interventions (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

We showed that selenium supplement therapies have beneficial effects in patients under hemodialysis. Furthermore, we showed that selenium supplement therapies have positive effects on serum selenium levels but no effects on total cholesterol and TG.

The Effects of Selenium on Bone Health: From Element to Therapeutics

Osteoporosis, characterized by low bone mass and a disruption of bone microarchitecture, is traditionally treated using drugs or lifestyle modifications. Recently, several preclinical and clinical studies have investigated the effects of selenium on bone health, although the results are controversial. Selenium, an important trace element, is required for selenoprotein synthesis and acts crucially for proper growth and skeletal development. However, the intake of an optimum amount of selenium is critical, as both selenium deficiency and toxicity are hazardous for health. In this review, we have systematically analyzed the existing literature in this field to determine whether dietary or serum selenium concentrations are associated with bone health. In addition, the mode of administration of selenium as a supplement for treating bone disease is important. We have also highlighted the importance of using green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles as therapeutics for bone disease. Novel nanobiotechnology will be a bridgehead for clinical applications of trace elements and natural products.

Potential benefits of selenium supplementation in patients with kidney disease

Trace element deficiency is common among patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD); the reason is that since these patients undergo dialysis, they lose these elements more than healthy people, and also the use of trace elements is restricted due to loss of appetite. Selenium (Se) is a trace element that is essential for the oxidative stress defense system. Se deficiency leads to some complications similar to those often seen in ESRD patients, such as all-cause mortality due to cardiovascular diseases, bone loss, uric acid elevation, and anemia. This article aims to review the evidence on consequences of Se deficiency in ESRD patients, as well as effects of Se supplementation in hemodialysis patients. Multiple databases were searched to summarize the available evidence on selenium's role in kidney diseases. Since the complications of ESRD and those of Se deficiency are mostly similar, this triggers the idea that Se deficiency may be considered as a cause of these problems, but it needs to be more assessed that Se deficiency is a single factor or there are other factors participated in. Also the role of Se supplementation on resolving the mentioned complications, needs to be more studied through welldesigned clinical studies.

Amorphous nano-selenium quantum dots prevent pulmonary arterial hypertension through recoupling endothelial nitric oxide synthase

AIMS

We have previously reported that nano-selenium quantum dots (SeQDs) prevented endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis. This study is to investigate whether amorphous SeQDs (A-SeQDs) increase endogenous tetrahydrobiopterin biosynthesis to alleviate pulmonary arterial hypertension.

RESULTS

Both A-SeQDs and C-SeQDs were stable under physiological conditions, while the size of A-SeQDs was smaller than C-SeQDs by high resolution-transmission electron microscopy scanning. In monocrotaline-injected mice, oral administration of A-SeQDs was more effective to decrease pulmonary arterial pressure, compared to C-SeQDs and organic selenium. Further, A-SeQDs increased both nitric oxide productions and intracellular BH4 levels, upregulated dihydrofolate reductase activity in lungs, and improved pulmonary arterial remodeling. Gene deletion of dihydrofolate reductase abolished these effects produced by A-SeQDs in mice. Finally, the blood levels of tetrahydrobiopterin and selenium were decreased in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

CONCLUSION

A-SeQDs increase intracellular tetrahydrobiopterin to prevent pulmonary arterial hypertension through recoupling endothelial nitric oxide synthase.

METHODS

Two polymorphs of SeQDs and A-SeQDs, and a crystalline form of SeQDs (C-SeQDs) were prepared through self-redox decomposition of selenosulfate precursor. Mice were injected with monocrotaline to induce pulmonary arterial hypertension in vivo. Pulmonary arterial pressure was measured.

PDO Rotonda’s Red Eggplant Extract: In vitro Determination of Biological Properties and Minerals Bioaccessibility

Background:

The Rotonda’s Red Eggplant belongs to the family of Solanum aethiopicum and it is cultivated in a specific area of Potenza (Basilicata, South of Italy) including villages of Rotonda, Viggianello, Castelluccio Superiore and Castelluccio Inferiore. The Red Eggplant cultivated in this area has gained the PDO, “Protected Designation of Origin”.

Objective:

The aim of this research was to evaluate the use of PDO Rotonda’s Red Eggplant extract as a possible nutraceutical supplement. The antioxidant, antihypertensive, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties were in vitro evaluated.

Methods:

The antioxidant activity was investigated by evaluating the scavenging properties against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals and by performing the Ammonium Molybdate and Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The hypoglycemic and antihypertensive activity was studied by evaluating the α-Amylase, α-Glucosidase and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme, respectively, inhibiting activity. In order to evaluate the hypolipidemic activity, the pancreatic lipase inhibiting property was determined and Oil Red O staining assay was performed. Finally, to evaluate the possible use of this extract as a minerals supplement, Selenium, Potassium and Chrome bioaccessibility was studied.

Results:

The obtained results underline the good antioxidant, hypoglycemic, antihypertensive and hypolipidemic in vitro properties of the PDO Rotonda’s Red Eggplant extract. Moreover, the obtained data show a higher minerals bioaccessibility and this higher value could be ascribable to the natural phytocomplex of PDO Rotonda’s Red Eggplant, which increases the minerals bioaccessibility if compare it with a control sample.

Conclusion:

The obtained results show that PDO Rotonda’s Red Eggplant extract, might be used as a possible nutraceutical supplement, along with traditional therapies, both for its biological properties and for its minerals bioaccessibility value.

Effects of Selenium Supplementation on Metabolic Status in Patients Undergoing for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) Surgery: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of selenium supplementation on glycemic control, lipid profiles, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients undergoing for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed among 33 patients undergoing for CABG surgery, aged 40-85 years old. Subjects were randomly allocated into two groups to intake either 200 μg/day selenium supplements as selenium yeast (n = 17) or placebo (n = 16) for 4 weeks. Glycemic control, lipid profiles, and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed at baseline and at the end of trial. After the 4-week intervention, selenium supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (β, 6.76 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 13.13, - 0.40; P = 0.03), insulin (β, - 1.14 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 2.01, - 0.28; P = 0.01); homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (β - 0.35; 95% CI, - 0.62, - 0.08; P = 0.01); and total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio (β - 0.31; 95% CI, - 0.51, - 0.09; P = 0.008); and significantly increased HDL-cholesterol levels (β, 2.72 mg/dL; 95% CI, 0.89, 4.55; P = 0.005) compared with the placebo. Moreover, selenium supplementation led to a significant reduction in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β, - 0.68 mg/L; 95% CI, - 1.18, - 0.17; P = 0.01) and malondialdehyde (MDA) (β, - 0.27 μmol/L; 95% CI, - 0.47, - 0.07; P = 0.009), and a significant elevation in total glutathione (GSH) levels (β, 77.33 μmol/L; 95% CI, 56.11, 98.55; P < 0.001) compared with the placebo. Selenium supplementation did not affect other metabolic profiles. Overall, our study demonstrated that selenium supplementation for 4 weeks to patients undergoing for CABG surgery had beneficial effects on FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, total-/HDL-cholesterol ratio, HDL-cholesterol, hs-CRP, GSH, and MDA levels, but did not affect other metabolic profiles. Clinical trial registration number: http://www.irct.ir : IRCT2017090533941N22.

Amorphous nano-selenium quantum dots improve endothelial dysfunction in rats and prevent atherosclerosis in mice through Na+/H+ exchanger 1 inhibition

AIM

Selenium, a trace element involved in important enzymatic activities inside the body, has protective effects against cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis. The safe dose of selenium in the organism is very narrow, limiting the supplementation of selenium in diet. The aim of this study is to explore whether selenium quantum dots (SeQDs) prevent atherosclerosis and to investigate the potential mechanisms.

METHODS

An amorphous form of SeQDs (A-SeQDs) and a crystalline form of SeQDs (C-SeQDs) were prepared through self-redox decomposition of selenosulfate precursor. Endothelial dysfunction was induced by balloon injury plus high fat diet (HFD) in rats. Atherosclerotic model was established by feeding Apoe^-/- mice with HFD.

RESULTS

Administrations of A-SeQDs but not C-SeQDs dramatically improved endothelium-dependent relaxation, and accelerated would healing in primary endothelial cells isolated from rats, which was comprised by co-treatment of LiCl. Lentivirus-mediated knockdown of Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger 1 (NHE1) abolished LiCl-induced endothelial dysfunction in rats. In cultured endothelial cells, A-SeQDs, as well as cariporide, inhibited NHE1 activities, decreased intracellular pH value and Ca²⁺ concentration, and reduced calpain activity increased by ox-LDL. These protective effects of A-SeQDs were reversed by LiCl treatment in endothelial cells. In Apoe^-/- mice feeding with HFD, A-SeQDs prevented endothelial dysfunction and reduced the size of atherosclerotic plaque in aortic arteries. Further, lentivirus-mediated NHE1 gene overexpression abolished the protective effects of A-SeQDs against endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis in Apoe^-/- mice.

CONCLUSION

A-SeQDs prevents endothelial dysfunction and the growth of atherosclerotic plaque through NHE1 inhibition and subsequent inactivation of Ca²⁺/calpain signaling. Clinically, the administration of A-SeQDs is an effective approach to treat atherosclerosis.

Concentrations of Trace Elements and Clinical Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Deficiency of essential trace elements and excess of potentially toxic trace elements are common in patients on hemodialysis. Whether these abnormalities are associated with poor outcomes is unknown but worth investigating, because they are potentially treatable.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

We did a prospective longitudinal study of 1278 patients on incident hemodialysis, assessing blood concentrations of 25 trace elements at baseline. We used adjusted logistic regression to evaluate the association between trace element status and four outcomes (death, cardiovascular events, systemic infection, and hospitalization). A priori hypotheses concerned (1) deficiency of zinc, selenium, and manganese and (2) excess of lead, arsenic, and mercury. Concentrations of the other 19 elements were tested in hypothesis-generating analyses.

RESULTS

Over 2 years of follow-up, 260 (20%) patients died, 285 (24%) experienced a cardiovascular event, 117 (10%) were hospitalized for systemic infection, and 928 (77%) were hospitalized for any cause. Lower concentrations of zinc or manganese and higher concentrations of lead, arsenic, or mercury were not independently associated with higher risk of clinical outcomes. Lower concentrations of selenium were strongly and independently associated with death (odds ratio, 0.86 per decile; 99.2% confidence interval, 0.80 to 0.93) and all-cause hospitalization (odds ratio, 0.92 per decile; 99.2% confidence interval, 0.86 to 0.98). In exploratory analyses, higher copper concentrations were significantly associated with higher risk of death (odds ratio, 1.07 per decile; 99.2% confidence interval, 1.00 to 1.15), and cadmium levels in the highest decile were associated with higher risk of death (odds ratio, 1.89; 99.2% confidence interval, 1.06 to 3.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Lower levels of zinc or manganese and higher concentrations of lead, arsenic, or mercury were not associated with higher risk of clinical outcomes, but lower concentrations of selenium were strongly and independently associated with the risks of death and hospitalization.

Selenium, Vanadium, and Chromium as Micronutrients to Improve Metabolic Syndrome

Trace metals play an important role in the proper functioning of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Some of the trace metals are thus essential for maintaining homeostasis, while deficiency of these trace metals can cause disorders with metabolic and physiological imbalances. This article concentrates on three trace metals (selenium, vanadium, and chromium) that may play crucial roles in controlling blood glucose concentrations possibly through their insulin-mimetic effects. For these trace metals, the level of evidence available for their health effects as supplements is weak. Thus, their potential is not fully exploited for the target of metabolic syndrome, a constellation that increases the risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Given that the prevalence of metabolic syndrome is increasing throughout the world, a simpler option of interventions with food supplemented with well-studied trace metals could serve as an answer to this problem. The oxidation state and coordination chemistry play crucial roles in defining the responses to these trace metals, so further research is warranted to understand fully their metabolic and cardiovascular effects in human metabolic syndrome.