Transcriptional Regulation of HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90 in Response to Selenium Nanoparticles and Sodium Selenite in Periparturient Cloned Saanen Goats and Their Offspring

Objectives This study investigated the effects of selenium supplementation in the form of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and sodium selenite (SSe) on the transcriptional regulation of heat shock proteins (HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90) in periparturient cloned and non‐cloned Saanen goats and their offspring. Methods A total of 24 pregnant goats (12 cloned via somatic cell nuclear transfer and 12 non‐cloned) were divided into three groups: SeNPs, SSe and control. Supplementation was administered orally from 21 days before expected parturition. Serum selenium levels and HSP gene expression were measured at multiple time points relative to parturition. Results Both SeNPs and SSe significantly increased serum selenium levels, with SeNPs demonstrating superior bioavailability. Supplemented groups exhibited significantly lower transcriptional levels of HSP60, HSP70 and HSP90 during the periparturient period, with SeNPs showing a more potent suppressive effect. A significant negative correlation was observed between serum selenium and HSP transcription. No differences were found between cloned and non‐cloned animals in selenium levels or HSP expression. Conclusions These findings suggest that selenium supplementation, particularly as SeNPs, enhances antioxidant capacity and reduces cellular stress, as reflected by the downregulation of HSP genes. This study highlights the potential of nano‐selenium to improve stress resilience during the critical transition period in goats and their offspring, irrespective of cloning status.