Target intelligence / Profile preview

Selenocysteine (Sec)

Target
Sec
Molecular classification
Amino Acid, Building block of selenoproteins
01

Overview

Selenocysteine (Sec), abbreviated as Sec or U, is the 21st proteinogenic amino acid. It is a selenium-containing analogue of cysteine and is cotranslationally incorporated into proteins (selenoproteins) in response to specific UGA codons. Selenoproteins play essential roles in redox reactions, antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, and cellular redox regulation across various life forms. Free selenocysteine is not found in cells due to its high reactivity and potential toxicity.

Other names
U21st proteinogenic amino acid
02

Mechanism of action

N/A

03

Biological functions

Redox reactionsAntioxidant defenseThyroid hormone metabolismCellular redox regulationProtein synthesis (component of selenoproteins)
04

Disease associations

Selenium deficiency related diseasesPotential role in cancer prevention (via selenoproteins)Potential role in cardiovascular health (via selenoproteins)
05

Safety considerations

Selenium toxicity (selenosis) at high dosesPotential for selenocysteine to be misincorporated in proteins under selenium excess conditions
06

Biomarkers

Selenoprotein levels (e.g., glutathione peroxidase) as indicators of selenium status

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