Manganese Neurotoxicity

Manganese (Mn) is one of the most abundant naturally occurring elements in the Earth’s crust. It is essential for many living organisms but also has been broadly used in industry due to its chemical properties. Because of this wide usage, Mn has become an important environmental toxin. Since this metal has been associated to a parkinsonian-like syndrome called manganism, it has been extensively studied, with a major focus on its effects on neuronal cells. The research on Mn absorption, distribution, biological effects, and reliable biomarkers has been extensive; however, much has not been uncovered yet, and new findings have been continuously added to the literature. Several animal models have been contributing to this field, providing genetic, epigenetic, molecular, biochemical, and physiological basis for the whole understanding of neurotoxicity induced by Mn. This chapter will cover up-to-date data on kinetics and neurotoxic mechanisms and how different animal models have contributed to the knowledge on Mn-induced neurotoxicity.