Potential of Trametes hirsuta mycelium for selenium absorption.

Biologically active substances, especially polysaccharides, isolated from fruiting bodies of Trametes species have immunomodulating and antitumor activities. Selenium is a trace element which at nutritional levels has antioxidant and numerous anticarcinogenic or preventive effects, while at higher levels it could be toxic. The purpose of this study was to resolve the question of whether various selenium concentrations affect ability of T. hirsuta mycelium to absorb and accumulate this trace element. Selenium was used in the form of Na2SeO3 and in the following concentrations: 0.3 mg/l, 0.7 mg/l, 1.0 mg/l, and 1.3 mg/l. The absorbed selenium concentration was determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Content of this trace element in the mycelium increased with enlargement of its concentration in the medium. Amounts of absorbed selenium were ranged from 7.54 μg/g (in the enriched medium with 0.3 mg/l) to 55.17 μg/g (in the enriched medium with 1.3 mg/l). Potential of mycelium to absorb this trace element was good. If the selenium concentration in the mycelium is presented as a percentage of its content in the medium it can be seen that absorption level was ranged from 15% to 25%.