TrxR1 and GPx2 are potently induced by isothiocyanates and selenium, and mutually cooperate to protect Caco-2 cells against free radical-mediated cell death

► ITC + Se protects colon cancer cells against H2O2-induced cell death. ► Protection is mediated through increased expression of TrxR1 and GPx2. ► Such increase enhances ROS detoxification mechanisms and Caco-2 growth advantage. ► Protection is abolished after silencing TrxR1 and GPx2 by siRNA. ► Se is the limiting factor for protein synthesis from increased ITC-induced selenoprotein transcription.