Toxicity Assessment Due to Chronic Exposure to Manganese in Male Wistar Rat

Abstract

Manganese (Mn) is present everywhere: in rocks, soil, water, food, and in various forms.Our bodies utilize it to contribute to energy metabolism and perform many other functions, but prolonged exposure can lead to toxicity in the organism.This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure to Mn, specifically its impact on the general condition of male Wistar rats, by recording all clinical symptoms associated with this intoxication.Different doses ranging from the lowest to the highest (6 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg i.p.) were administered intraperitoneally over a period of 12 weeks.The objective of the study was to identify the lethal dose and the tolerated toxic dose in order to establish a toxicity model.Weight gain was monitored weekly, and, at the end of the exposure period, the rats were euthanized and their organ weights (liver and kidneys) were recorded.Our results indicate signs of intoxication resulting from chronic exposure to Mn.Specifically, doses of 25 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg were found to be toxic and adversely affect the general condition of the rats.In contrast, the 6 mg/kg dose showed no adverse effects when compared to the 25 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg doses.Additionally, the 40 mg/kg dose proved to be lethal.Weight changes were observed in rats injected with the highest doses of Mn, along with alterations in organ weights.This study led us to conclude that chronic exposure to Mn induces dose-dependent toxic effects, as evidenced by the observed clinical signs of toxicity.