Manganese

Manganese is an essential traceelement that is involved in key biochemical processes:
✔ Antioxidant protection -it is a part of the enzyme superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), which neutralizes free radicals.
✔ Metabolism -participates in the synthesis of:

• Glucose (gluconeogenesis).
• Cholesterol and fatty acids.
  ✔ Bone and cartilage formation -activates enzymesEnzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They ensure the occurrence of metabolic processes such as food digestion, energy release, cell formation, and many others. that synthesize collagenCollagen is a fibrillar protein, one of the main building elements of the body. It constitutes a significant part of connective tissues such as skin, tendons, joints, bones, and cartilage. Collagen provides strength, elasticity, and structural integrity to these tissues, giving them the ability to resist stretching. and proteoglycans.
  ✔ The work of the nervous system -affects the transmission of nerve impulses.
  ✔ Reproductive health -essential for the synthesis of sex hormonesHormones are biologically active substances that are produced by specialized cells or glands (such as endocrine glands) and regulate various physiological processes in the body. They act as chemical signals that are transmitted through the bloodstream to organs and tissues to control and coordinate a wide range of functions, including metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, mood, and more. Examples include insulin, testosterone, estrogen, and adrenaline..

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Symptoms of manganese deficiency

Deficiency is rare, but it is possible if:

• Long -term parenteral nutrition (without Mn supplements).
• Genetic disorders of manganese metabolism.

Signs:

• Bone growth disorders (osteoporosis, scoliosis in children).
• Reduced glucose tolerance (pseudodiabetes).
• Hypercholesterolemia.
• Convulsions, tremors (due to neurotransmitter dysfunction).
• Depigmentation of the skin and hair.

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Symptoms of excess manganese

Toxicity develops when:

• Chronic inhalation of manganese dust (in welders, miners).
• Genetic disorders (for example, mutations in the SLC30A10 gene ).
• Long-term intake of dietary supplements with Mn (>11 mg / day).

Signs:

• Neurological disorders:
• Manganese parkinsonism (tremor, muscle rigidity).
• Mental disorders (aggression, hallucinations).
• Liver damage(fibrosis).
• Cardiomyopathy.

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Norms of manganese in analyses

The level of manganese is determined in:

1. Whole blood (the most accurate method)

2. Blood serum

• The norm: 0.5-1.2 mcg/l.

3. Urine (daily)

• The norm: < 2 mcg/day.

4. Hair/Nails

• The norm: 0.1-1.5 mcg/g.

Critical levels:

• > 20 mcg / l (blood) – toxicity.
• < 2 mcg/l (blood) – deficiency.

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When are tests scheduled?

1. Suspected manganese poisoning (in employees of hazardous industries).
2. Neurological symptoms (Parkinsonism of unknown origin).
3. Osteoporosis or growth disorders in children.
4. Control of parenteral nutrition.

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What should I do if there are deviations?

If there is a shortage:

• Diet: nuts (hazelnuts, pecans), whole grains, pineapple, spinach.
• Supplements: manganese gluconate (2-5 mg / day).

If there is an excess:

• Chelation therapy (EDTA, dimercaprol).
• Avoid contact with manganese dust.
• Iron intake (reduces the absorption of Mn).

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Examples of interpretation

• Blood manganese = 25 mcg / l + tremor → poisoning, chelation required.
• Blood manganese = 1 mcg / l + osteoporosis → deficiency, supplements are needed.

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Conclusion

Manganese is a vital element for antioxidant protection, metabolism, and the bone system.
🔹 Rules:

• Blood: 4-15 mcg/l,
• Urine: * * <2 mcg / day**. * * * * * Deficiency leads to osteoporosis, neurological disorders. * * * Excess** (>20 mcg/l) causes Parkinsonism and liver damage.
  Лечение *Treatment*: diet, chelators (for poisoning), supplements (for deficiency).