Exploring how selenium functions in the body beyond its known roles.
Official title: Selenoprotein-independent biological roles for selenium in selenium deficiency and excess
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10894123 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how selenium, an important nutrient, helps protect heart cells and improve their function, which could lead to new ways to help people with conditions caused by too little or too much selenium.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $343,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148832-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894123 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions related to selenium deficiency or those at risk of cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any selenium-related deficiencies or cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological roles of selenium, an essential micronutrient, particularly focusing on its antioxidant properties and mechanisms that go beyond the production of selenoproteins. The study aims to understand how selenium acts as an electron donor in cellular processes, specifically in reducing ubiquinone to ubiquinol, which is crucial for mitochondrial function and cellular respiration. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic approaches for conditions related to selenium deficiency and excess, particularly in heart cells. Patients may benefit from insights into how selenium can protect cells from damage and improve cellular function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that harness selenium's protective properties against cellular damage, particularly in heart-related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding selenium's antioxidant roles, but this specific mechanism is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Dohoon — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Kim, Dohoon
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.