Varalakshmi Vungutur

Ms. Varalakshmi Vungutur


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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22 October 2024 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
VVVaralakshmi Vungutur
Varalakshmi Vungutur
SMShannon Morgan
Shannon Morgan
NZNingning Zhao
Ningning Zhao
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 Zip14 knockout (Zip14-/-) 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.