Mechanisms of Selenium Enrichment and Measurement in Brassicaceous Vegetables, and Their Application to Human Health

Summary

This narrative review examines selenium uptake and metabolism in Brassicaceae vegetables, with emphasis on their potential role in human health, particularly cancer prevention and immunity. The authors investigate the interplay between selenium and sulphur metabolism in these crops, discuss the discovery and significance of selenoglucosinolates, and critically evaluate biofortification strategies and analytical methodologies for identifying novel selenium compounds. The review synthesises evidence to determine which approaches might most effectively supply selenium-deficient populations.

Regional applicability

The findings are relevant to UK horticulture and public health policy, particularly given variable soil selenium availability across regions. Biofortification strategies for brassicas could support micronutrient adequacy in UK populations, though local soil selenium status and agronomic feasibility would determine practical applicability.

Key measures

Selenium content and speciation in Brassicaceae plants; methylselenocysteine and selenoglucosinolate concentrations; glucosinolate content; bioavailability and efficacy of selenium compounds in relation to cancer prevention and immune function

Outcomes reported

The review synthesised evidence on selenium uptake and metabolism in Brassicaceae crops, examined the relationship between selenium and sulphur metabolism, and evaluated biofortification approaches for addressing selenium deficiency. It also considered methodologies for identifying and quantifying novel selenium-containing compounds, including selenoglucosinolates, in these plants.

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