Selenium nanoparticles: A new frontier in immunotherapy and disease treatment

Selenium, a vital trace element for human health, is known for its role in immune regulation and cancer prevention. Now, researchers are discovering that selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) could offer even greater therapeutic potential. By modifying the surface properties of these nanoparticles, scientists are unlocking new possibilities for using selenium in immunotherapy, inflammation reduction, and tumor treatment.

A recent review by researchers from Jinan University published in Nano Biomedicine and Engineering highlights the growing role of SeNPs in immunotherapy. The study explores how these nanoparticles are synthesized, how they work in the body, and their potential in medicine.

SeNPs can be synthesized using both chemical and biological methods. Chemical processes often reduce selenium compounds into nanoparticles, while biological methods use microorganisms to transform selenium. These flexible techniques allow researchers to create SeNPs with specific properties tailored to different medical needs.

"The size and surface features of SeNPs are crucial," said Dr. Ting Liu, co-author of the study. "By controlling these aspects, we can target specific areas of the body for more effective treatments."

SeNPs can activate the immune system, helping immune cells like natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages target and destroy tumor cells. In addition, these nanoparticles are being tested in combination with traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, showing enhanced anticancer effects and better immune response when used together.

SeNPs also have strong anti-inflammatory effects. They can reduce inflammation by regulating key proteins in the body, offering potential treatments for inflammatory diseases like colitis. In animal studies, SeNPs reduced inflammatory markers and restored immune balance in the intestines.

Beyond that, SeNPs are also being explored as vaccine adjuvants. These nanoparticles can improve immune cell activation, helping vaccines work more effectively and potentially boosting cancer vaccine efficacy.

"SeNPs could play a pivotal role in both cancer and infectious disease vaccines," said Dr. Liu. "Their ability to enhance immune responses makes them a powerful tool in modern medicine."

While SeNPs show great promise, there are still hurdles to overcome. Though studies in animals have been promising, more research is needed to ensure these nanoparticles are safe and effective in humans. Researchers are working to better understand how SeNPs interact with different immune cells and how to control their effects for precise, targeted treatments.