Protective Efficacy of Selenite against Lead-Induced Neurotoxicity in <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i>

<div><p>Background</p><p>Selenium is an essential micronutrient that has a narrow exposure window between its beneficial and toxic effects. This study investigated the protective potential of selenite (IV) against lead (Pb(II))-induced neurotoxicity in <i>Caenorhabditis elegans</i>.</p><p>Principal Findings</p><p>The results showed that Se(IV) (0.01 µM) pretreatment ameliorated the decline of locomotion behaviors (frequencies of body bends, head thrashes, and reversal ) of <i>C. elegans</i> that are damaged by Pb(II) (100 µM) exposure. The intracellular ROS level of <i>C. elegans</i> induced by Pb(II) exposure was significantly lowered by Se(IV) supplementation prior to Pb(II) exposure. Finally, Se(IV) protects AFD sensory neurons from Pb(II)-induced toxicity.</p><p>Conclusions</p><p>Our study suggests that Se(IV) has protective activities against Pb(II)-induced neurotoxicity through its antioxidant property.</p>