Selenium Nanoparticle–2D Material Hybrid Composites for Redox Regulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Biochemical and Microchemical Insights
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Selenium serves as an essential element and recognizes as for its vital biological significance by acting as cofactor. Despite its essentiality, dual role of selenium as a beneficial micronutrient at optimal concentrations and a potential pro-oxidant at high concentrations under external stress remains a critical area of investigation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae . However, advent of redox homeostasis regulator and stress controller green synthesized selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) has emerged as a promising solution. The research examines the dose-dependent effects of Se-NPs on the growth dynamics and glutathione redox cycle (GSH:GSSG) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae subjected to external stress conditions. Synthesized Se-NPs were prepared and confirmed by Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra at peak at 300 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a spherical with irregular patterns of Se-NPs. The analysis by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) revealed a strong intensity of Se as compared to other elements. Yeast culture was exposed to selenium treatments at different concentrations: No selenium (control), < 0.1 mg/L, 0.1–1 mg/L, and > 2 mg/L, with evaluations focusing on microscopic morphology, spectroscopic absorbance (A600), cell counts and the redox equilibrium of the GSH:GSSG cycle in mitochondria, cytosol and nucleus under external stress conditions, including thermal stress, ethanol stress, H₂O₂ stress (oxidative damage), and HU stress (replication disruption). Selenium dose at 0.1–1 mg/L improved cell viability together with stress tolerance by preserving a high GSH:GSSG ratio which promote antioxidant defense whereas excessive selenium dose (> 2 mg/L) induced cytotoxicity and disrupted glutathione homeostasis leading to redox imbalance. These findings described a critical threshold for Se-NP bioactivity that identify its protective versus toxic effects. Understanding of selenium dose-dependent modulation in redox homeostasis provides fundamental insights into the potential biotechnological, redox biology and therapeutic applications along with stress management strategies.
Source: Research Square
Language: English
Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225734611