Introduction

Selenoproteins exist in all major forms of life, eukaryote, eubacteria and archaea. Among eukaryotes, selenoproteins appear to be common in animals, but rare or absent in other phyla.
Biological functions of selenium (Se) are exerted by selenoproteins. About 35 different selenocysteine-containing selenoproteins have so far been observed in human cells and tissues. Since lack of selenium deprives the cell's ability to synthesize selenoproteins, many health effects of low selenium intake are believed to be caused by the lack of on or more specific selenoproteins.
Though some selenoproteins are known to be involved in redox reactions, their biological role is yet poorly understood.
Our aim is to study the variability of 3 different selenoprotein genes. In order to do so, we will look for Single Nucleotide Polimorphisms (SNPs) in its sequence which might be affecting critical positions.