L-selenomethylselenocysteine

L-selenomethylselenocysteine (also known as Se-methyl-L-selenocysteine or MSC) is a naturally occurring organic selenium compound found in Allium and Brassica vegetables, such as garlic and broccoli. It is a highly bioavailable, non-protein-accumulating selenoamino acid that acts as a prodrug. Upon oral administration, it is metabolized by kynurenine aminotransferase 1 (KYAT1) / cysteine-S-conjugate β-lyase to generate methylselenol, a highly active anticancer and antioxidant metabolite. L-selenomethylselenocysteine has been evaluated in clinical trials (Phase I/II) as a chemopreventive agent for prostate and breast cancers, and as a chemosensitizer or protective agent to reduce chemotherapy-induced toxicities (such as mucositis). It is also widely marketed as a dietary supplement for antioxidant and immune support.

Brand names

MethySeleneMethySelene 5000 DCPMethySelene5000 DCPMethySelene-5000 DCPMethyl SelenoCysteine 5000 DCP

Other names

3-(methylseleno)-L-alanineL-Se-methylselenocysteineL-SeMCL-methylselenocysteineMeSeCysMSCSe-methyl-L-selenocysteineSe-methylseleno-L-cysteineSe-methylselenocysteineSeMCmethylselenocysteine