Selenium is an essential trace element, found primarily in the amino acids selenomethionine and selenocysteine. Proteins containing selenocysteine in their active site are integral to several key physiological processes. Fundamental questions remain, however, regarding selenium’s precise role in these pathways. This work seeks to provide insight into the unique redox chemistry afforded by selenium in the cellular environment. Using a combination of electrochemical and spectroscopic techniques, the redox behavior of biologically relevant selenium-containing species, including selenocysteine, selenomethionine, and 1,3-dimethylimidazole-2-selone, has been examined. Parallel studies have been conducted on the sulfur analogs. Characterization of these organochalcogen systems will be presented and a customized cell that supports solution electrochemistry and surface spectroscopy will be described.

Exploring the physiological role of selenium: Electrochemical studies of organochalcogen analytes

ACS Spring 2022

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