ZIP8 Is Upregulated in the Testis of Mice.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Manganese is an essential nutrient involved in various biological processes, including reproductive health, yet the mechanisms regulating its homeostasis in the testis remain poorly understood.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, we investigated the expression and regulation of key manganese transporters-ZIP8, ZIP14, and ZnT10-in mouse testes. Immunoblotting analyses revealed that ZIP8 is expressed in the testes, while ZIP14 and ZnT10 were undetectable. Using knockout () mice, which exhibit systemic manganese overload, we discovered a significant increase in manganese levels in the testis, accompanied by an upregulation of ZIP8. Importantly, the levels of other essential metals, such as iron, zinc, and copper, remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ZIP8 plays a critical role in manganese transport in the testis, and its increased expression may contribute to manganese accumulation in the absence of ZIP14. This study advances our understanding of manganese homeostasis in the testis and its potential impact on male reproductive health.