ABSTRACT
I. INTRODUCTION Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element found in grains, meat, seafood, and certain vegetables. It is a cofactor of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which plays a key role in cellular defense against oxidative damage (1). Because oxygen free radicals and lipid peroxidation might be involved in several pathological conditions, such as atherosclerosis, cancer, and chronic inflammation, selenium may provide protection against several chronic diseases.
