Selenium Status in Elderly People: Longevity and Age-Related Diseases

Abstract

Background: Selenium (Se) is a trace element active in selenoproteins, which can regulate oxidative stress. It is generally perceived as an import factor for maintaining health in the elderly.

Methods: The goal of this review is to discuss selenium concentration in biological samples, primarily serum or plasma, as a function of age and its relation with longevity. The elemental level in various age-related diseases is reviewed.

Conclusion: Highest selenium values were observed in healthy adults, while in an elderly population significantly lower concentrations were reported. Variables responsible for contradictory findings are mentioned. Risk and benefits of Se-supplementation still remain under debate.

Keywords: Se-supplementation; Selenium; age-related diseases; biological materials; longevity; oxidative stress..