Manganese Chloride Induced Hepatic and Renal Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace metal and acts as cofactor in many cellular enzymes. But excessive concentration of the Mn is potentially toxic resulting in several disorders. The present study was designed to evaluate toxic effects of manganese chloride (MnCl₂.4H₂O) exposure on marker biochemical parameters, antioxidant defense system and histomorphology of liver and kidney in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. In group A, the rats were treated with vehicle (0.5 ml normal saline) and served as control. The rats in group B and C were exposed to MnCl₂ (50 and 100 mg/kg b.wt./day, p.o. respectively) for 120 days. The results showed significant elevation in cholesterol and triglyceride contents in liver while glycogen concentration showed significant depletion. Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, urea and creatinine were significantly increased by MnCl₂ treatment. The present data also indicated that MnCl₂ significantly increased lipid peroxidation (LPO) and concomitantly decreased the levels of glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in both liver and kidney extracts compared to control. Histopathological study of the liver of MnCl₂ exposed rats showed dose based degenerative and atrophic changes, infiltration of mononuclear cells and dilation of sinusoids. Sections of kidney also showed dilation of glomeruli and degenerative changes in the tubules. Taken together these data suggest that MnCl₂ exposure has adverse impact on the morphology and functions of both liver and kidney in rats.