International review standardizes selenosugar nomenclature and selenium metabolism
Selenosugars are the major urinary metabolites responsible for the physiological excretion of selenium. Understanding selenium metabolism relies on accurately detecting and identifying selenosugars. However, research has been hindered by inconsistent terminology used for selenosugars, varying analytical practices and an incomplete understanding of the biological pathway for selenosugar…
A recent review study has introduced standardized terminology, analytical guidelines, and an updated metabolic model for selenosugars. Selenosugars are the primary urinary metabolites responsible for selenium excretion in mammals. The inconsistencies in naming, analytical methods, and understanding of the biological pathway have hindered research progress.
The team, led by Professor Yasumitsu Ogra from Chiba University, Japan, aimed to establish a consistent nomenclature and analytical framework to eliminate ambiguity and improve future investigations. They recommend a workflow combining high-performance liquid chromatography with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for reliable selenosugar identification.
Selenosugars are integral to mammalian selenium metabolism, serving as the main terminal products for selenium detoxification and urinary excretion. The proposed framework integrates evidence on intermediates, protein-bound selenosugars, and conjugated selenium species, providing a more comprehensive understanding of selenium transport, storage, and elimination.
This harmonized nomenclature and analytical framework will improve consistency and reproducibility in selenium research and deepen our understanding of selenium homeostasis in health and disease.
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