Biology

The cells most likely to be damaged in selenium deficiency are cardiac muscle cells.

Cardiac muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) have a high density of mitochondria because they require a constant and substantial supply of ATP to sustain the continuous contraction of the heart. Since selenium plays a role in stabilizing mitochondrial membranes, a deficiency could impair mitochondrial function, leading to reduced energy production and potential damage to these highly energy-dependent cells.

The other cell types are less likely to be as severely affected:

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