Prostaglandin synthesis is increased in selenium supplemented human mesangial cells despite suppression of phospholipase A2-activity.

Antioxidants play an important role in the regulation of phospholipid hydrolysis and arachidonate metabolism. Supplementation of cultured human mesangial cells with selenium resulted in suppression of phospholipase A2-activity and significantly increased production of three major prostaglandins. However, prostacyclin synthesis benefits most from selenium supplementation, suggesting that there is a specific action of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase on this pathway. Like in endothelial cells, production of platelet activating factor is significantly inhibited by selenium supplementation.