Differential Effects of Selenium Compounds on Mitochondrial Function in PRRSV-Infected Porcine Alveolar Macrophages

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace mineral with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Se deficiency increases oxidative stress and immunosuppression. In swine, dietary Se supplementation enhances immune function and growth, and previous studies suggest it protects immune cells during viral infection (i.e., Influenza virus, Coronavirus). Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes severe respiratory and reproductive failure in swine, resulting in annual losses of 1.2 billion USD. Vaccine efficacy is hampered by the high mutation rate of the virus, requiring alternative approaches. This study examines the effects of organic (DL-Selenomethionine, L-Selenomethionine, yeast-selenium) and inorganic (sodium selenite) Se on PRRSV infection in vitro. Porcine alveolar macrophages, the primary target of PRRSV in the lung, were isolated from healthy animals and infected with PRRSV-2 with or without Se. Mitochondrial function, gene expression, oxidative stress, and viral load were assessed post-infection. DL-selenomethionine restored ATP production, suggesting improved mitochondrial function. We observed no antiviral activity against PRRSV after Se treatment. Immune gene expression analysis revealed infection-driven modulation, but Se treatment had no significant effect. While Se did not exhibit antiviral activity in vitro, its enhancement of mitochondrial function offers additional molecular insight supporting its potential immunomodulatory benefits observed in previous in vivo studies.