manganese

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

manganese is a transition metal with the atomic number 25 and the symbol Mn. It exhibits various chemical properties and is known for its various actions and spectral characteristics. In terms of its actions, manganese plays a crucial role in various biological processes. It acts as a cofactor for several enzymes involved in energy metabolism, antioxidant defense, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Additionally, manganese is essential for adequately functioning enzymes responsible for synthesizing collagen and bone mineralization. Moreover, it contributes to regulating blood sugar levels and is involved in cholesterol metabolism. 

Spectrum: 

manganese displays exciting characteristics in terms of its absorption and emission spectra. In the absorption spectrum, manganese ions absorb visible light, particularly in the blue and green regions of the spectrum. This absorption property gives rise to the familiar pink color in solutions containing manganese compounds. manganese ions also exhibit interesting emission properties. manganese ions emit characteristic colors depending on the specific compound and its environment when excited by a suitable energy source, such as ultraviolet light. For example, manganese compounds can emit red, orange, or green light, making them useful in various applications such as pigments, dyes, and fluorescence labeling. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Unusual hoarseness 

Wheezing 

Trouble swallowing, talking, or breathing 

Allergic reactions, like hives, rash, itching 

Tightness in the throat or chest 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication 

• Neurological Issues: Chronic exposure to high levels of manganese, primarily through inhalation of manganese dust or fumes in industrial settings, can lead to a condition known as manganism. Manganism resembles Parkinson’s disease and can cause tremors, muscle rigidity, and difficulties with movement and coordination. 
• Respiratory Problems: Inhalation of manganese dust or fumes can also lead to respiratory issues like bronchitis and pneumonia, particularly in industrial workers exposed to high manganese concentrations. 
• Impaired Cognitive Function: Excessive manganese intake has been linked to impaired cognitive function, particularly in children. Long-term exposure to elevated manganese levels has been associated with children’s developmental delays, learning difficulties, and decreased IQ. 
• Liver Damage: High levels of manganese exposure can lead to liver damage, mainly when it accumulates in the liver tissues. 
• Cardiovascular Effects: Some studies suggest that long-term exposure to high manganese levels may be associated with adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, including enhanced risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. 
• Interference with Other Minerals: High manganese intake can interfere with absorbing other essential minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc, leading to potential nutrient deficiencies. 
• Allergic Reactions: In some individuals, exposure to manganese can trigger allergic reactions, resulting in skin rashes, itching, and other allergic symptoms. 

Caution 

• Recommended Daily Intake: The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for manganese varies depending on age, sex, and life stage. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended intake levels and not exceed them, as excessive manganese intake can lead to health problems. 
• Occupational Exposure: Individuals working in specific industries, such as welding, mining, and battery manufacturing, may be at risk of occupational exposure to high levels of manganese. Employers and workers in these industries should follow appropriate safety measures, including using personal protective equipment and implementing ventilation systems to minimize exposure. 
• Interaction with Medications: manganese can interact with certain medications, particularly those used to treat psychiatric disorders. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), commonly prescribed for depression and other mental health conditions, may have an increased risk of side effects when combined with high manganese levels.  
• Medical Conditions: People with specific medical conditions may need to be cautious about manganese intake. For instance, individuals with liver disease may have difficulty metabolizing manganese, leading to its accumulation in the body.  
• Nutritional Balance: While manganese is essential, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of other essential nutrients. Excessive manganese intake can interfere with absorbing other minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc. Therefore, consuming a diverse range of foods is crucial to ensure an overall nutrient balance. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

US FDA pregnancy category: C 

Lactation:   

Excreted into human milk: Not known 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

The pharmacology of manganese involves its interactions within the body, including the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. manganese is primarily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with its uptake regulated by transporters. Once absorbed, manganese is distributed throughout the body, with the elevated concentrations in the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and bones.

It undergoes hepatic metabolism and is primarily excreted through the bile. manganese is a cofactor for various enzymes involved in energy metabolism, antioxidant defense, and neurotransmitter synthesis. However, excessive manganese intake or exposure can lead to neurotoxic effects, causing a condition known as manganism, which resembles Parkinson’s disease.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

Mechanism of action: The mechanism of manganese primarily involves its role as a cofactor for various enzymes and its participation in redox reactions.  

• Enzyme Activation: manganese acts as an essential cofactor for several enzymes, activating and properly functioning. One of the most well-known enzymes requiring manganese as a cofactor is manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), which plays a important role in antioxidant defense by converting superoxide radicals into less harmful species. manganese also activates other enzymes, including arginase, pyruvate carboxylase, and several glycosyltransferases. 
• Energy Metabolism: manganese plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by participating in vital enzymatic reactions. It is involved in metabolizing carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. For example, manganese is necessary for activating enzymes such as pyruvate decarboxylase, which converts pyruvate to acetyl-CoA in the citric acid cycle. 
• Neurotransmitter Synthesis and Regulation: manganese is involved in synthesizing and regulating certain neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes such as tyrosine hydroxylase and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase, synthesizing these neurotransmitters. Proper levels of manganese are essential for average neurotransmitter production and regulation. 
• Bone Health and Collagen Synthesis: manganese is necessary for synthesizing collagen, an essential structural protein in connective tissues, including bones. manganese activates enzymes involved in synthesizing collagen and bone mineralization, contributing to maintaining healthy bones and connective tissues. 
• Antioxidant Defense: manganese, through the activity of manganese-dependent enzymes like MnSOD, helps protect cells from oxidative stress by neutralizing harmful free radicals. manganese participates in redox reactions, facilitating the conversion of reactive oxygen species into less reactive and harmful forms. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

manganese is primarily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in the small intestine. The absorption process is regulated by transporters, such as the divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) and the manganese transporter 1 (SLC30A10). Factors like dietary composition, gastrointestinal health, and other dietary components can influence manganese absorption. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, manganese is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It binds to plasma proteins, primarily albumin, and forms complexes with other molecules. manganese accumulates in tissues with higher metabolic activity, including the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and bones. 

Metabolism 

manganese undergoes hepatic metabolism in the liver, where it is metabolized by enzymes such as manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). MnSOD plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense by converting superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The primary route of manganese excretion is through the bile. Once metabolized in the liver, manganese is secreted into the bile and eliminated in feces. Only a tiny fraction of manganese is excreted through the kidneys in urine. The excretion process is regulated by ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABC transporters) and organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2). 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Oral administration 

manganese can be administered through various methods depending on the purpose and context.  

• Dietary Intake: The primary and most natural way to obtain manganese is through dietary sources. manganese-rich foods include whole grains, nuts, legumes, leafy green vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Consuming a balanced diet that includes these food sources can help meet the body’s manganese requirements. 
• Oral Supplements: In cases where dietary intake is insufficient or if there is a specific medical need, manganese supplements in tablets, capsules, or liquid solutions can be taken orally. These supplements are available over-the-counter or by prescription and should be used according to the recommended dosage provided by a healthcare professional. 
• Parenteral Administration: In certain medical situations, such as severe malabsorption or specific clinical conditions, manganese may be administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM). This method bypasses the digestive system and delivers manganese directly into the bloodstream or muscle tissue. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: manganese 

Pronounced: [ MAN-ga-nees ] 

Why do we use manganese? 

manganese has several essential uses across various industries and applications.  

• Steel Production: One of the primary uses of manganese is in producing steel. manganese is added to iron during steelmaking to improve its strength, toughness, and resistance to wear and corrosion. manganese or Hadfield steel is instrumental in applications requiring high durabilities, such as railroad tracks, construction equipment, and crusher parts. 
• Batteries: manganese produces batteries, particularly alkaline and zinc-carbon batteries. It acts as a depolarizer, facilitating the flow of electrons in the battery and extending its lifespan. manganese dioxide is a common component in batteries used in electronic devices, toys, and portable power sources. 
• Alloys and Metallurgical Applications: manganese is alloyed with other metals to enhance their properties. For example, manganese is added to aluminum alloys to improve strength and corrosion resistance. It is also used to produce various non-ferrous alloys, including copper, nickel, and stainless steel. 
• Fertilizers and Agriculture: manganese is an essential plant nutrient, playing a crucial role in photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and nitrogen metabolism. It is often included in fertilizers to address manganese deficiencies in the soil and promote healthy plant growth. 
• Pigments and Dyes: Various industries use Certain manganese compounds as pigments and dyes. For example, manganese dioxide is a black pigment in ceramics, paints, and plastics. manganese compounds are also used to produce colored glass, ceramics, and pottery. 
• Water Treatment: manganese dioxide is used in water treatment processes to remove impurities, such as iron, hydrogen sulfide, and organic contaminants. It acts as a catalyst in the oxidation reactions that convert these substances into insoluble forms that can be filtered out. 
• Health Supplements: manganese is an essential nutrient for human health and is included in some dietary supplements. These supplements are often taken to support bone health, energy metabolism, antioxidant defense, and normal brain function.