Selenium accumulation characteristics and biotransformation potentiality in Pichia kudriavzevii

This study researched a Se -enriched dominant Pichia kudriavzevii 1845 for its potential as a selenium (Se) supplement. The results showed that under optimal conditions, the total Se amount within Se - enriched P. kudriavzevii 1845 (SeY) was 680.86 +/- 20.98, with organic forms accounting for 84.88 +/- 1.52%. Importantly, Se -enrichment did not negatively affect the ultrastructure of the strain, and seleno-nanoparticles were observed on the surface and inside of SeY. The enriched Se was transferred from the surface to the interior and evenly distributed in the cytoplasm of yeast. Additionally, Se enrichment significantly improved the probiotic abilities of the strain, including hydrophobicity and auto -aggregation. The survival rate of SeY during gastrointestinal digestion was not affected. Furthermore, SeY exhibited increased antioxidant properties, such as radical scavenging capacity and antioxidative enzymes. This research demonstrate that SeY has great potential as a Se supplement to address Se deficiency.