An iPSC-derived neuronal model reveals manganese's role in neuronal endocytosis, calcium flux and mitochondrial bioenergetics

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace metal required for normal biological function, yet it also poses neurotoxic risks when dysregulated. Maintaining proper intracellular and extracellular Mn levels is critical, as Mn imbalance has been implicated in a spectrum of human diseases—including inherited Mn transport disorders, acquired manganism, and more prevalent neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Despite these associations, the cellular mechanisms driving Mn-induced neuropathology remain poorly understood. To investigate this, we developed an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived midbrain neuronal model using patient lines with mutations in SLC39A14, SLC39A8, and SLC30A10. Through integrated transcriptomic and functional analyses, we found that Mn dyshomeostasis disrupts essential neuronal pathways, including mitochondrial bioenergetics, calcium signaling, endocytosis, glycosylation, and stress responses—leading to early neurodegeneration. This humanized model advances our understanding of Mn's impact on neuronal health and disease and highlights potential molecular targets for future therapeutic interventions in Mn-related neurological disorders.