Advances in research on influencing factors of selenium enrichment in plants

Abstract

Selenium (Se) is a vital micronutrient for human beings, and the global population facing Se deficiency is estimated to be around one billion individuals. To tackle this issue, the enrichment of staple crops with Se has emerged as a potential solution. However, it is important to note that Se can also be detrimental in excessive amounts, and contamination of the environment due to Se from agricultural and industrial sources has resulted in catastrophic ecological disasters over the past half-century. Consequently, the utilization of Se-enriched plants for both human supplementation and phytoremediation purposes has become an invaluable approach towards pollution control. An in-depth comprehension of how plants absorb and metabolize Se is pivotal in the realms of biofortification and phytoremediation. This comprehensive review concisely outlines the origins, mechanisms of absorption, conversion, and metabolism of Se in plants, while also elucidating the various factors that influence its uptake and accumulation. These influential factors encompass soil moisture, organic matter, pH levels, soil texture, microorganisms, and unique plant species characteristics. Furthermore, a thorough analysis of the potential mechanisms that underlie such influences is conducted. It is evident that both biofortification and phytoremediation possess substantial promise in confronting the challenges pertaining to Se, thereby fostering advancements in environmental sustainability. Building upon the current progress in research, this review provides suggestions for future directions aimed at establishing a theoretical framework for Se supplementation in human nutrition and the mitigation of Se-induced pollution.