Low serum selenium (Se) levels have been shown in critical illness, which is associated with poor clinical outcomes and a higher mortality rate. Se plays an important role in inflammation and oxidative stress. Since the overproduction of inflammatory cytokines and increased oxidative stress is a major component of critical illnesses, its supplementation has been demonstrated to have promising effects on critically ill patients. This study aims to review the evidence regarding the effects of Se supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative markers in critically ill patients. The literature review highlights alterations of inflammatory markers, including procalcitonin, leukocyte count, albumin, prealbumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), inflammatory cytokines, and cholesterol following Se supplementation in critically ill patients. Besides, the antioxidant properties of Se due to its presence in the structure of several selenoenzymes have been reported. Article highlights: Low serum Se level have been shown in critical illness, which is associated with poor clinical outcome and higher mortality rate. Se plays an important role in inflammation and oxidative stress. Se supplementation can have promising effects by alterations of inflammatory markers and its antioxidant properties for critically ill patients.

Embryo implantation is a complex process in which multiple molecules acting together under strict regulation. Studies showed the production of various adipokines and their receptors in the embryo and uterus, where they can influence the maternal-fetal transmission of metabolites and embryo implantation. Therefore, these cytokines have opened a novel area of study in the field of embryo–maternal crosstalk during early pregnancy. In this respect, the involvement of adipokines has been widely reported in the regulation of both physiological and pathological aspects of the implantation process. However, the information about the role of some recently identified adipokines is limited. This review aims to highlight the role of various adipokines in embryo–maternal interactions, endometrial receptivity, and embryo implantation, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms.