Accumulation and distribution of selenium in different parts and macromolecule of Se-enriched Tartary Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) during germination

The accumulation of selenium (Se) and distribution in the sprouts of tartary buckwheat cultivated in Na2SeO3 solutions with different concentrations were investigated in this study. Total Se content, organic Se content and the proportion of organic Se were determined. The results indicated that the total Se content increased gradually while the proportion of organic selenium decreased gradually with the increasing of ambient Na2SeO3 concentrations in the range of 10-20 μg/mL. After three days’ germination, tartary buckwheat cultivated in 20 μg/mL Na2SeO3 solution presented the highest selenium accumulation; Se contents in different parts decreased in this order: radicle > husk > hypocotyl > cotyledon. Se contents in total protein were higher than in polysaccharides, nucleic acids and other components. Furthermore, Se contents in protein fractions decreased in the order albumin, glutelin, globulin and prolamin. Selenium in proteins was primarily present as albumin-bound Se and glutelin-bound Se.