Manganese

Manganese

Manganese-dependent enzymes are vital for various biochemical processes. Pyruvate carboxykinase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase are key in gluconeogenesis, converting pyruvate and phosphoenolpyruvate to oxaloacetate. Arginase is essential for the urea cycle, removing excess nitrogen. Glutamine synthetase aids in amino acid metabolism and nitrogen transport. Mn-dependent carbonic anhydrase regulates pH and CO2 levels. Glycosyltransferases influence protein function through carbohydrate addition. Digestive enzymes like amylase, lipase, and trypsin break down nutrients for absorption. Collagenase and prolidases are involved in tissue remodeling, while aggrecanase affects cartilage health. Ubiquinone oxidoreductase supports energy production, and sulfur transferases, cysteine dioxygenase, methionine sulfoxide reductase, thioredoxin reductase, and sulfate reductase facilitate sulfur metabolism.

Manganese is crucial for protein synthesis and metabolism, aiding in the transcription and translation of genetic code and assembling amino acids into proteins. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes such as proteases, transferases, ligases, and isomerases, which are essential for protein metabolism, modification, and signaling. Manganese is involved in amino acid metabolism, converting them into vital molecules like neurotransmitters and antioxidants. Its antioxidant properties protect proteins from oxidative damage, while also regulating protein folding and degradation to ensure proper protein function and recycling.

Manganese is vital for dental health, supporting bone metabolism to maintain bone density and strength. It serves as a cofactor for enzymes that form dental enamel, protecting teeth from decay. As an antioxidant, manganese reduces inflammation and protects teeth and tissues from free radical damage. It is crucial for connective tissue health, including the periodontal ligament, which prevents tooth loss. Manganese also influences salivary flow and composition, aiding in acid neutralization, remineralization, and bacterial removal. It plays a key role in tooth formation, particularly during fetal development and early childhood, and enhances oral wound healing.

Manganese plays a crucial role in hearing by supporting the structural integrity and function of the inner ear, particularly the organ of Corti and auditory hair cells. It regulates hair cell function and protects them from noise damage, aids synaptic transmission and neurotransmitter release, and supports auditory nerve functions like myelination and axonal transport. Manganese also acts as an antioxidant, regulates inflammation and immune responses, and maintains fluid and ionic balance in the inner ear. Additionally, it supports mitochondrial function, energy metabolism, and gene expression related to hearing, protecting against age-related hearing loss and ensuring proper hearing throughout life.

Manganese is involved in the production of keratin, a protein that makes up the structure of hair. Additionally, manganese helps to enhance the absorption of other essential hair growth nutrients like biotin and vitamin C.