Final answer:
Selenium works in tandem with Vitamin E, serving as an antioxidant and playing a crucial role in tissue respiration and the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q.
Step-by-step explanation:
Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for good health, and it works in tandem with several other nutrients. Specifically, selenium works closely with Vitamin E to assist in tissue respiration, acting as an antioxidant to protect tissues and membranes against peroxidation. The requirement of Vitamin E in the body is dependent on the amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the diet and the selenium status in the body as it spares the activity of selenium. Additionally, selenium is involved in the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q (ubiquinone), which plays a vital role in the respiratory chain essential for cellular energy production.