Mn2+ and bacterial pathogenesis
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Updated: Aug 26, 2026

Humanized Mouse Model to Study Bacterial Infections Targeting the Microvasculature
Published on: April 1, 2014
Michelle L Zaharik1, B Brett Finlay
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Abstract:
Fe2+ has traditionally been considered the most important divalent cation involved in host-pathogen interactions. However, recent research indicates a previously unappreciated role for transition metal divalent cations other than Fe2+ during infection. Recent studies have identified an absolute requirement for Mn2+ in bacterial pathogens that are Fe2+-independent, indicating an important role for Mn2+ in pathogenesis. Potential roles for Mn2+ in pathogenesis include effects on the detoxification of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs), as a cofactor for enzymes involved in intermediary metabolism and signal transduction, and as a stimulus for virulence gene regulation. This review focuses on how these possible roles for Mn2+ may affect bacterial pathogenesis and the outcome of an infection.
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