Its precise function remains to be elucidated; however, it is thought to have antioxidant properties.
[3] The promoter structure of bovine SelP suggests that it may be involved in countering heavy metal intoxication, and may also have a developmental function.
[3] The large number of Sec residues in the C-terminal portion of SelP suggests that it may be involved in selenium transport or storage.
[5] The function of the C-terminal domain is known to be vital for maintaining levels of selenium in brain and testis tissue but not for the maintenance of whole-body selenium.
[5] The C-terminal domain is smaller in size but far more rich in selenium.