Selenium-derived bioactive enablers for advanced therapies: From molecular redox modulation to broad-spectrum disease applications

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs)-derived bioactives have garnered considerable attention in recent years due to their unique bioactivity, favorable biocompatibility, and versatile engineering potential in the field of disease therapy. This review systematically summarizes the primary strategies for SeNPs synthesis, encompassing chemical, biological, and physical approaches, and provides an in-depth discussion on their cytotoxic mechanisms mediated through oxidative stress modulation, caspase signaling activation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) depletion. Notably, we highlight the multidimensional protective functions of SeNPs in scavenging reactive oxygen species, modulating inflammatory cytokines, and reshaping the immune microenvironment, elucidating their pivotal roles in antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and immune regulation. Furthermore, the review outlines the cutting-edge advances of SeNPs-derived bioactives in cancer treatment, antibacterial applications, inflammatory diseases treatment, radiation protection, reversing acute kidney injury (AKI), and antiviral applications, positioning SeNPs as next-generation therapeutic platforms. This review establishes a translational roadmap for selenium-enabled therapeutics, bridging molecular redox modulation to multimodal disease interventions, with forward-looking insights into their evolution as targeted bioactives.Image 1View The PDF