We present a literature review of the significance of selenium in plants, animals, and humans. The selenium concentrations in soils with different compositions and from different regions in Russia are reported. The issue of the selenium content of plants, the main source of this element for humans, is considered. The beneficial effects of small amounts of selenium on the productivity and quality of a number of agricultural crops are noted. The possible causes of selenium deficiency in plants are indicated. A separate section examines the role of selenium in animals. Its involvement in the function of a spectrum of enzymes and proteins is demonstrated, and some animal diseases associated with deficiency of this micronutrient element are described. The impact of selenium on human health is highlighted. We address key functions of selenium in the human body, including its oncopreventive effects. The data on selenium-containing proteins are summarized, and their roles in particular biological processes are specified. The diseases caused by selenium deficiency are described in detail. Possible ideas to eliminate a deficiency of this element in humans are indicated. Lastly, we identify problems related to research on the influence of selenium on living organisms, which must be addressed in the nearest future.
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