Selenium's role on thyroid autoimmunity and cognitive dysfunction in elderly

Abstract

Selenium is a trace element essential for the human body. The amount of this element, which is found in nature and in the human organism, varies depending on the geographical region and intake with food. Selenoproteins play an important role in maintaining the immune system, antioxidant system, hormone synthesis and living metabolism. Selenium can affect thyroid autoantibodies in autoimmune thyroid diseases and participate in the biosynthesis of thyroid hormones in the body. There are also studies showing that selenium is a protective factor for cognitive dysfunction, especially for the elderly population.