The roles of Serum Selenium and Selenoroteins on Mercury Toxicity in Environmental and Occupational Exposure

The total selenium (Se) and mercury (Hg) concentrations in body fluids and serum Se-containing proteins in individuals exposed to high concentrations of Hg were investigated. Se and Hg concentrations in serum and urine were compared from highly Hg-exposed and control subjects to determine whether Hg exposure affected the distribution and absorption of Se. The role of plasma selenoproteins in transporting or accumulating Hg was also investigated. Samples were collected from thirty-five residents from a noncontaminated area. Total mercury concentrations in urine and serum samples were determined by hydride generation-atomic fluorescence spectrometer (HG-AFS). Among the exposed groups, Hg concentrations in twelve subjects were extremely high, ranging from 67.5 to 210.3 ng/mL in serum and from 87.2 to 205.2 ng/mL in urine.