Selenium thyroid
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The Role of Selenium in Thyroid Health
Selenium and Thyroid Function
Selenium is a crucial trace element that plays a significant role in thyroid health. It is incorporated as selenocysteine in all three deiodinases, enzymes essential for thyroid hormone synthesis, secretion, and metabolism . The thyroid gland contains more selenium per gram of tissue than any other organ in the body, highlighting its importance in thyroid function.
Selenium Deficiency and Thyroid Disorders
Selenium deficiency has been linked to various thyroid disorders, including autoimmune thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and goiter . In regions with severe selenium deficiency, there is a higher incidence of thyroiditis due to decreased activity of selenium-dependent enzymes within thyroid cells. Even mild selenium deficiency can contribute to the development and maintenance of autoimmune thyroid diseases.
Selenium Supplementation in Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Several studies have investigated the effects of selenium supplementation in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). A systematic review and meta-analysis found that selenium supplementation significantly reduced serum thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) levels in both levothyroxine (LT4)-treated and untreated AIT populations. This reduction was observed after three months of supplementation and was consistent at six and twelve months in LT4-treated populations.
Other studies have also reported a decrease in TPOAb and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) levels with selenium supplementation, along with improved thyroid ultrasound features and quality of life . However, the clinical relevance of these findings remains to be fully demonstrated .
Selenium and Graves' Disease
In patients with Graves' disease, selenium supplementation has been associated with faster remission of hyperthyroidism and improved quality of life and eye involvement in those with mild thyroid eye disease . These benefits are thought to be due to selenium's antioxidant properties and its role in modulating the immune response .
Genetic Factors and Selenium Supplementation
Genetic factors may influence the effectiveness of selenium supplementation. A study in China found that the reduction in TPOAb titers varied among patients with different genotypes of the SEPP1 gene, which encodes a selenium transport protein. This suggests that individual genetic profiles could impact the response to selenium supplementation.
Conclusion
Selenium plays a vital role in thyroid health, particularly in the context of autoimmune thyroid diseases. While selenium supplementation has been shown to reduce thyroid autoantibody levels and improve certain clinical features, the overall clinical benefits and optimal target populations for supplementation require further investigation. Genetic factors may also play a role in determining individual responses to selenium supplementation, highlighting the need for personalized approaches in treatment.
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