Nanocomplex for preventing selenium deficiency developed at Lobachevsky University
Researchers from the UNN Faculty of Chemistry have developed a non-toxic, biocompatible composition based on selenium and chitosan nanoparticles with antioxidant properties. This nanocomplex enhances the absorption of selenium and ensures the human organism receives the necessary amount of this trace element. The compound can be incorporated into biologically active dietary supplements in the form of solutions, tablets, or capsules.
"We get selenium from plant-based foods. The highest concentration of this trace element can be found in wheat flour and various vegetables and fruits. However, plants themselves absorb it from the soil, and the soils in some parts of Russia contain low levels of selenium. This can lead to a lack of selenium in our bodies, which can cause problems with the functioning of various organs, such as the skin, hair, cardiovascular system, and reproductive system. The level of selenium in the body has a significant impact on these systems," explained Kristina Apryatina, associate professor at the Department of High Molecular Compounds and Colloid Chemistry at the UNN Faculty of Chemistry.
Most dietary supplements contain selenium in ionic form. Selenium ions are less efficiently absorbed by the body, so in order to ensure the right dose, the amount of selenium in the supplement must be increased. Nanoparticles, on the other hand, are less toxic and have a higher biological effectiveness due to their small size. However, to create a nanoparticle, a carrier substance is needed that can hold the selenium in its nanoform and transport it to the body's organs and tissues. Chitosan, a natural polymer known for its beneficial properties, has been used as a stabilizer by Lobachevsky University researchers in the development of such carriers.
"In our composition, chitosan not only acts as a transport and stabilizer polymer, but also has some unique properties. This polysaccharide possesses antitumour and anti-inflammatory effects, stimulates tissue regeneration, and normalizes the gastrointestinal tract, among other benefits. Additionally, like selenium, it provides an antioxidant effect on the body. Together, these two ingredients will be able to maintain the balance of oxidative processes and prevent premature aging," said Kristina Apryatina.
UNN scientists are also investigating the anti-hypoxic effects of nanoselenium. The researchers believe that this compound could help improve oxygen absorption at high altitudes. They plan to use chitosan to deliver nanoparticles of other essential trace elements that are poorly absorbed by the human body in ionic form, such as zinc and copper.
The research project was carried out by scientists from the Department of High Molecular Compounds and Colloid Chemistry at the UNN Faculty of Chemistry. The technology has been patented with the support of the UNN Technology Transfer Centre. This research was supported by the Russian Science Foundation's project No. 21-73-00188, "New Bioactive Systems Based on Complexes of Biocompatible Polymers with Au, Pt, and Se Nanoparticles," as part of the Presidential Program to support research projects implemented by leading scientists, including young researchers.
