S-COS-Se mitigates cadmium-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and immunotoxicity by restoring immune balance and inhibiting mitochondria-pyroptosis crosstalk.

Cadmium (Cd) exposure-induced immune system damage has become a serious health problem, triggering complex pathological changes and multiple diseases. Existing interventions, such as traditional metal chelators and anti-inflammatory drugs, have limitations. Selenium products have long been used to combat Cd toxicity, even though traditional options often fall short. Sulfated chitooligosaccharide selenium (S-COS-Se) with its sulfation and oligosaccharide moiety has unique advantages in enhancing antioxidant and prebiotic effects. This study investigated the impact of S-COS-Se on Cd-induced toxicity. Results indicate remarkable protective effects on spleen injury, oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory response, mitochondrial function, pyroptosis, and immune microenvironment balance. Cd exacerbates mitochondrial damage and activates the pyroptosis involved in cell processes. The multi-faceted protection offered by S-COS-Se demonstrates its potential as an agent against Cd-induced immune damage and a possible solution for related health issues.