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Published on: November 20, 2021
Manganese-induced Neurotoxicity: From C. elegans to Humans
Pan Chen1, Sudipta Chakraborty1, Tanara V Peres2
1Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Manganese (Mn) is one of the most abundant metals on the earth. It is required for normal cellular activities, but overexposure leads to toxicity. Neurons are more susceptible to Mn-induced toxicity than other cells, and accumulation of Mn in the brain results in Manganism that presents with Parkinson's disease (PD)-like symptoms. In the last decade, a number of Mn transporters have been identified, which improves our understanding of Mn transport in and out of cells. However, the mechanism of Mn-induced neurotoxicity is only partially uncovered, with further research needed to explore the whole picture of Mn-induced toxicity. In this review, we will address recent progress in Mn-induced neurotoxicity from C. elegans to humans, and explore future directions that will help understand the mechanisms of its neurotoxicity.
Insights
Manganese (Mn) is essential but toxic at high levels, especially harming neurons and causing Parkinson
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Manganese (Mn) is an abundant essential metal, but overexposure causes neurotoxicity.
- Accumulation of Mn in the brain leads to Manganism, mimicking Parkinson's disease (PD) symptoms.
- While Mn transporters are identified, the precise mechanisms of Mn neurotoxicity remain incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding manganese-induced neurotoxicity.
- To explore the mechanisms of Mn toxicity across species, from C. elegans to humans.
- To identify future research directions for a comprehensive understanding of Mn neurotoxicity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on manganese neurotoxicity.
- Comparative analysis of Mn toxicity mechanisms across different model organisms.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on Mn transport and cellular effects.
Main Results:
- Neurons are particularly vulnerable to manganese toxicity.
- Identification of Mn transporters has advanced understanding of Mn homeostasis.
- Significant gaps remain in fully elucidating the pathways of Mn-induced neurodegeneration.
Conclusions:
- Manganese neurotoxicity is a significant health concern, linked to Parkinson's-like symptoms.
- Further research is crucial to uncover the complete mechanisms of Mn neurotoxicity.
- Understanding Mn transport and cellular effects is key to developing effective interventions.
