Glutathione peroxidase and viral replication: Implications for viral evolution and chemoprevention

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Diamond, Alan M. | Hu, Ya Jun | Mansur, David B.

Affiliations: Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 60612, USA | Radiation Oncology Center, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA

Note: [] Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 1919 W. Taylor Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA. Tel.: +1 312 996 2083; Fax: +1 312 413 0319; E-mail: adiamond@uic.edu

Abstract: It is likely that several of the biological effects of selenium are due to its effects on selenoprotein activity. While the effects of the anti-oxidant selenoprotein glutathione peroxidase (GPx) on inhibiting HIV activation have been well documented, it is clear that increased expression of this enzyme can stimulate the replication and subsequent appearance of cytopathic effects associated with an acutely spreading HIV infection. The effects of GPx on both phases of the viral life cycle are likely mediated via its influence on signaling molecules that use reactive oxygen species, and similar influences on signaling pathways may account for some of the anti-cancer effects of selenium. Similarly, selenium can alter mutagenesis rates in both viral genomes and the DNA of mammalian cells exposed to carcinogens. Comparisons between the effects of selenium and selenoproteins on viral infections and carcinogenesis may yield new insights into the mechanisms of action of this element.

Journal: BioFactors, vol. 14, no. 1-4, pp. 205-210, 2001