Selenium accumulation and metabolism in algae

Summary

This 2017 narrative review synthesises current understanding of selenium accumulation and metabolism in micro- and macro-algae, examining both uptake mechanisms and metabolic fate. The authors discuss dual relevance: ecotoxicological concerns where excess selenium reduces algal primary production, and nutritional opportunity where selenium-enriched algae and their conversion to organic forms (selenomethionine, methylselenocysteine) could support biofortification strategies and provide anticarcinogenic compounds for human health. The work positions algae as pivotal organisms in selenium cycling and as potential vectors for dietary selenium supplementation.

Regional applicability

The review's focus on selenium biofortification via algae has potential relevance to United Kingdom food security and micronutrient adequacy programmes, particularly if algal farming were developed domestically. However, the paper does not address United Kingdom-specific cultivation conditions, regulatory frameworks, or consumer adoption pathways; further applied research would be needed to assess practical applicability to British agricultural and food systems.

Key measures

Selenium uptake pathways (selenate and selenite), accumulation rates, metabolic conversion to volatile compounds, toxicity thresholds, bioavailability of organic selenium forms (selenomethionine and methylselenocysteine)

Outcomes reported

The study characterised selenium uptake mechanisms, accumulation strategies, and metabolic fate in micro- and macro-algae. It examined both ecotoxicological implications of selenium at high concentrations and potential applications for selenium biofortification of the human diet.

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