Selenium in the treatment of colon cancer: Investigation of effect on epithelial mesenchymal transition

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of seleno-L-methionine (SLM), a selenium (Se) compound, on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related transcription factors (ZEB1 and ZEB2). Materials and Methods: The human colon carcinoma cell line (Caco-2) was treated with different concentrations of SLM (15.6–250 nmol/L) for 24 hours. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, live/dead rate and morphology were evaluated by Calcein-AM/Propidium Iodide staining, and ZEB1 and ZEB2 gene expressions were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Results: SLM decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner (IC50: 31.25 nmol/L). Live/dead analysis revealed a significant increase in non-viable cells in the SLM-treated group compared to controls, although clear apoptotic morphology was not consistently observed. qRT-PCR analysis revealed a significant downregulation of ZEB2 and a slight reduction in ZEB1 expression. Conclusion: SLM exhibited cytotoxic effects and modulated EMT-related gene expression, suggesting potential therapeutic implications in CRC.