Selenium is an essential element. It is a cofactor required to maintain activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of organic hydroperoxides. The absence of selenium correlates with loss of GSH-Px activity and is associated with damage to cell membranes due to accumulation of free radicals.

The trace mineral selenium functions primarily as a component of the antioxidant enzyme, glutathione peroxidase. Glutathione peroxidase activity, which requires selenium for activity, facilitates the recycling of vitamins C and E, in optimizing the performance of the antioxidant system.

Selenium is a mineral found in soil, water, and some foods. We need trace amounts for normal health, and selenium is an essential element in several metabolic pathways. It also has antioxidant properties that help prevent cellular damage from free radicals.

Selenium is required for thyroid function. Selenium is an essential component of the enzymes that convert Thyroxine (T4) to Triodothyronine (T3). Selenium is also important in heavy metal detoxification and is also important in enhancing immune system function.

Selenium (Se) is normally found in hair at very low levels, and several studies provide evidence that low hair Se is reflective of dietary intake and associated with cardiovascular disorders. Utilization of hair Se levels to assess nutritional status, however, is complicated by the fact that use of Se- or sulfur-containing shampoo markedly increases hair Se (externally) and can give a false high value.

Selenium is an essential element. It is a cofactor required to maintain activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), an enzyme that catalyzes the degradation of organic hydroperoxides. The absence of selenium correlates with loss of GSH-Px activity and is associated with damage to cell membranes due to accumulation of free radicals.

Selenium, RBC – What Does It Mean?

Selenium, RBC (Red Blood Cells) measures intracellular selenium levels, providing a better reflection of long-term selenium status compared to a standard serum selenium test. Selenium is a trace mineral essential for antioxidant defense, thyroid function, immune health, and detoxification.

Why Is This Test Important?

Selenium is crucial for:
- Antioxidant protection – A key component of glutathione peroxidase, which neutralizes harmful free radicals.
- Thyroid hormone production – Necessary for converting T4 (thyroxine) into T3 (triiodothyronine), the active thyroid hormone.
- Immune function – Supports immune cell activity and reduces inflammation.
- Heavy metal detoxification – Helps eliminate toxic metals like mercury.
- Cognitive and cardiovascular health – Supports brain function and prevents oxidative stress in the heart.

RBC selenium levels provide a longer-term view (about 3–4 months) of selenium status, unlike serum selenium, which can fluctuate with recent dietary intake.

Selenium is a vital micronutrient with broad roles in health, including antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone regulation, and immune function. Monitoring selenium levels through the Selenium, Serum/Plasma test is important for identifying deficiencies, toxicities, and supporting overall health, especially in at-risk populations.

Semen pH is an important biomarker assessed during a semen analysis, as it indicates the acidity or alkalinity of the semen, which plays a key role in the health and functionality of sperm. The normal pH range for semen is typically between 7.2 and 8.0, which is slightly alkaline. This alkalinity helps protect sperm as they pass through the acidic environment of the female reproductive tract.

The SEMI-QUANT RF biomarker is a powerful tool in autoimmune disease management. Whether for early detection of Rheumatoid Arthritis or ongoing monitoring of disease progression, its ability to provide a detailed measurement of RF levels makes it indispensable in clinical settings. For anyone facing autoimmune disorders, knowing your SEMI-QUANT RF levels can guide more personalized and effective care.

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Serine is used to manufacture proteins, energy, cell membrane structure and synthesis of other cell components (DNA and RNA). Serine is a dispensable amino acid obtained from the diet and synthesized from other amino acids and metabolites of glucose.

Serine participates in protein synthesis, energy production, phospholipid synthesis (phosphatidyl serine and ethanolamine) and one-carbon unit metabolism (necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis). Quantitatively, serine supplies more one-carbon units than any other nutrient. Serine is an attachment point for carbohydrates on protein chains.

Repletion Information: Since serine is a dispensable amino acid, no dietary RDA exists. Serine is present in foods that are rich in protein. Doses of 1-2 grams daily of pure serine appear safe.

Serine is a nonessential amino acid used in protein biosynthesis. In the folate cycle, glycine and serine are interconverted by the enzyme serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT). Glycine accepts a methyl donor from 5-10 MTHF and becomes serine; therefore, serine is methylated glycine. [L] These methyltransferase reactions and interconversions are readily reversible depending on the needs of the folate cycle. [L]

Serine is a nonessential amino acid used in protein biosynthesis and can be derived from four possible sources: dietary intake, degradation of protein and phospholipids, biosynthesis from glycolysis intermediate 3-phosphoglycerate, or from glycine.

Serine is found in soybeans, nuts, eggs, lentils, shellfish, and meats. Serine is used to synthesize ethanolamine and choline for phospholipids. Serine is essential for the synthesis of sphingolipids and phosphatidylserine in CNS neurons. In the folate cycle, glycine and serine are interconverted. These methyltransferase reactions and interconversions are readily reversible depending on the needs of the folate cycle. Dietary serine is not fully converted to glycine; therefore, serine supplementation has little value, though is not harmful.

Serine is found in soybeans, nuts, eggs, lentils, shellfish, and meats.

Serine is a nonessential amino acid used in protein biosynthesis and can be derived from four possible sources: dietary intake, degradation of protein and phospholipids, biosynthesis from glycolysis intermediate 3-phosphoglycerate, or from glycine.

Serine is used to synthesize ethanolamine and choline for phospholipids. Serine is essential for the synthesis of sphingolipids and phosphatidylserine in CNS neurons.

In the folate cycle, glycine and serine are interconverted. These methyltransferase reactions and interconversions are readily reversible depending on the needs of the folate cycle. Dietary serine is not fully converted to glycine; therefore, serine supplementation has little value, though is not harmful.