Several studies have have shown that selenium can inhibit the MAPK p38 pathways. This results in lower levels of TNF and inflammatory cytokines, and prevention of tumor growth.

• Selenium blocks the activation of p38 triggered by the bacterial compound LPS (an immune stimulant). PMID: (cache)

• MAPK p38 is stimulated by glucose and insulin but inhibited by selenium. PMID:16143069 (cache)

• MAPK p38 is stimulated by peroxynitrite, but this stimulation is prevented when cells are pre-exposed to selenium. 10218497

• Vitamin E and Selenium reduced the sickness resulting from high levels of cytokines including TNF, IL-1 and IL-6, although they did not block the production of cytokines. 15867297

• In cells exposed to TNF, Selenium reduced the inflammatory nature of TNF by preventing an expected pruduction of the cytokines ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and E-selectin. 11888521.

Conclusions

Selenium may be effetive in blunting the effects of a cytokine storm. The best advice is to take a moderate supplement of selenium daily or every other day well in advance of an infection.

For budget minded shoppers, Swanson Premium Brand Selenium is one of the least expensive products ($6 for 300 caps, nearly a year's supply). Country Life Selenium is Yeast Free and Vegetarian (on sale at Swansons: $2.69 for 90 tablets).

Other studies: PMID:15489211 (cache)16168115

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