Selenium Deficiency and Infection Susceptibility in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Chengmin, Wu Yanyun, Qin Jianhua, Sun Haoxue, He Hongxuan
Primary Institution: National Research Center For Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
Hypothesis
Does selenium deficiency increase susceptibility to Cryptosporidium parvum infection in mice?
Conclusion
Selenium deficiency is associated with increased susceptibility to Cryptosporidium parvum infection and impaired immune responses in mice.
Supporting Evidence
- Se-deficient mice showed lower levels of Th1 and Th2 cytokines compared to Se-adequate mice.
- The total white blood cell count was significantly higher in Se-adequate mice.
- Se-deficient mice had higher levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), indicating increased oxidative stress.
Takeaway
Mice that don't get enough selenium are more likely to get sick from a parasite called Cryptosporidium parvum.
Methodology
The study used Se-deficient and Se-adequate mouse models to analyze immune responses and antioxidant enzyme activities following infection with C. parvum.
Limitations
The study was limited to mouse models, which may not fully represent human responses to selenium deficiency and infection.
Participant Demographics
C57BL/6 mice, both Se-deficient and Se-adequate.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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