Interrelation between prenatal mercury-selenium exposure and glutathione gene polymorphism: impact on growth and development in children.

Abstract

Prenatal exposure to mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) has significant implications for children growth and development, especially in populations with high seafood consumption. Organic mercury (methylmercury) is particularly hazardous to neurodevelopment, while selenium serves as a critical micronutrient with antioxidant properties that might protect against mercury-related disruptions. Genetic variations in glutathione-related genes, such as those encoding glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), influence the body's ability to metabolize mercury and utilize selenium. These polymorphisms can modulate mercury detoxification and selenium bioavailability, impacting mercury bioaccumulation and the oxidative balance essential for fetal growth and development. This narrative review explores the complex interactions between prenatal mercury and selenium exposure and glutathione gene polymorphisms, elaborating on their effects on children's growth and developmental outcomes.