WTF is Manganese?

I am currently working on a research project in the chemistry department with Dr. Mahapatro. We are investigating the intermediate manganese (Mn) species in the oxidation of permanganate. We have noticed a 5 electron change in acidic mediums, a 3 electron change in alkali mediums, and we are currently investigating how the reaction proceeds at physiological pH (7.4). This work is particularly interesting because of the biological roles that manganese plays in humans and other organisms. This project will give insights into how manganese behaves in biological systems.

                Li and Yang, 2018 explain the current knowledge of the use of manganese in humans. Manganese is an interesting trace element because it is necessary to life but too much can be toxic. Manganese is involved in the activation and or synthesis of some enzymes, proteins, and vitamins. It plays a role in the regulation of the endocrine system impacting the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates. It also plays a role in the synthesis and secretion of insulin. In the mitochondria, it forms Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) which clears reactive oxygen species (ROS) /free radicals. Without superoxide dismutase, the free radicals released during the electron transport chain and other sources would cause massive oxidative damage and cell death. All these roles are important for maintaining normal physiological function. A manganese deficiency can lead to growth impairments caused by the changes in normal metabolism. Changes in insulin release and synthesis can cause issues with blood sugar and cells ability to take up glucose. The loss of MnSOD can cause mitochondrial dysfunction. All these issues compound, altering the normal physiology leading to a variety of effects. Just like too little manganese can cause issues so can too much. Too much Mn can also disrupt the normal functioning of mitochondria. It can increase ROS, inhibit ATP production, and change membrane permeability. This can lead to a sort of positive feedback loop in which too much Mn causes disease and the disease increases the production of ROS making the disease worse, so on and so forth.

This barely scratches the surface on the biological role of Mn and its chemistry. The biological mechanisms that involved manganese are not well understood, this is why the work I am doing with Dr. Mahapatro is important. Basic science may seem inconsequential at first but when the work is applied to biological systems its importance in our lives becomes clear.

 

Li, L., & Yang, X. (2018). The essential element manganese, oxidative stress, and metabolic diseases: links and interactions. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2018.