Selenium: Essential for Animals, Not for Plants

摘要

Selenium (Se) is essential for many physiological functions in humans and animals, but not for plants. In humans, it is present in more than 20 proteins that are involved in roles such as cancer protection, anti-oxidants, maintaining defenses against infection, and regulating growth and development. Since Se is obtained primarily in food, its accumulation by plants is of interest. The accumulation of Se by plants has been studied worldwide, even though it is not classified as an essential nutrient. Many regions grow crops that contain insufficient Se to meet human and animal nutritional requirements. In these locations, efforts have been made to increase plant Se concentrations. Other areas have problems with excessive Se found in vegetation. When plants contain very high Se concentrations, animals that consume these plants can be at risk of toxicity (called selenosis).