ABSTRACT
Interestingly, bioinformatics analyses suggest that there may be an inverse correlation in gene expression of several selenoproteins and their DNA methylation status in colon cancer cell lines. This analysis suggests that at least some selenoprotein genes may undergo gene expression regulation via DNA methylation, likely mediated by DNA-methyltransferases (DNMT). This chapter explains whether the potential cancer-regulatory effects of selenium (Se) via selenoproteins may be, at least in part, regulated via epigenetic mechanisms. Little is known about the mechanism of action of the selenoproteins that have been implicated to function in cancer etiology and prevention. The bioinformatics and preliminary in vitro analyses suggest that epigenetic regulation of at least some selenoproteins in colorectal cancer may be Se-mediated. Knowledge of epigenetic regulation via an essential trace mineral would allow for individualized and targeted nutritional intervention strategies in a common malignancy.
