An Overview‏ ‏of the B iological Function of Selenium and Selenoproteins in the Body and Its ‎Effect on Diabetes

Propose:
Selenium is an essential ultra-trace element that regulates many biological processes including cellular response to oxidative stress, redox signaling, cell differentiation, and immune response. In addition, selenium is also involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulates the basal metabolism in all body tissues. In this article, the function of selenium and selenoproteins as well as their role in various processes and the occurrence of diabetes are investigated.
Methods: In this research, 79 articles between 1984 and 2023 from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SID databases were reviewed regarding the function of selenium and selenoproteins.
Results:
The biochemical and cellular effects of selenium are obtained through the activity of selenoproteins containing selenocysteine. In this article, some of the protective effects of selenium and selenoproteins in different parts, such as antioxidant defense, cardiovascular system, brain function, cell differentiation, cancer prevention, immune system regulation and detoxification of heavy metals were mentioned. The effects of selenium on health are complex, and consuming super-nutritional doses of selenium can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. In recent decades, optimizing selenium intake to prevent diseases related to selenium deficiency or excess has been recognized as an important issue in global health. Considering that the basic level of selenium is not the same in different populations, including in Iran, there is a need for separate studies to determine the reference range.
Conclusion:
Selenium as a redox center plays different roles in selenoproteins. More relevant basic and clinical studies are expected to maximize the benefits of selenium use and help reduce its potential risks. Also, the investigation of hidden mechanisms in the field of selenium effects on various diseases requires more studies.