Selenium has a protective role in caspase-3-dependent apoptosis induced by H2O2 in primary cultured pig thyrocytes

Abstract

Cytotoxic effects of H2O2 on thyroid cells include caspase-3-dependent apoptosis that occurs at H2O2 concentrations insufficient to induce necrosis. Selenium deficiency aggravates the apoptotic response, probably due to impaired capacity of GPx to degrade H2O2.