Central nervous effect of manganase in rats investigated by repeated simultaneous electrophysiological and behavioral recording

Abstract

Human environment (including workplaces, homes, outdoor areas, etc.) can contain various neurotoxicants, being of both natural and synthetic origin, and exposing humans by inhalation, by consumption of foods and drinking water, or via the skin. The major groups of relevant toxicants include both organics and inorganics, mainly metals and metal compounds. Manganese (Mn) has, in form of alloys and compounds, numerous practical applications from steelmaking to nano-electronics. It is an essential trace element for all living organismspresent, among others, in glial glutamine synthetase, and in mitochondrial complex II and III but has toxic effects when overdosed. This intestinal absorption is a self-regulated process whereas parenteral absorption after inhalation etc. may be much more efficient, which has toxicological relevance.