Manganese deficiency
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Understanding Manganese Deficiency: Impacts on Health and Agriculture
Manganese Deficiency in Animal Health
Effects on Hepatic Function and Metabolism
Manganese (Mn) is a crucial trace element for various enzymatic activities in animals. A study on weanling male Sprague-Dawley rats demonstrated that dietary Mn deficiency significantly reduces hepatic Mn concentration and arginase activity, leading to altered plasma concentrations of ammonia and urea . This deficiency also impacts carbohydrate metabolism, as evidenced by abnormal insulin production and impaired glucose tolerance in Mn-deficient rats . These findings highlight the essential role of Mn in maintaining normal metabolic functions and suggest that Mn deficiency can lead to significant biochemical disruptions.
Cholesterol and Lipid Metabolism
Research on Wistar and genetically hypercholesterolemic RICO rats indicates that Mn deficiency does not significantly alter cholesterol and lipid metabolism in these animals. However, it does result in decreased body weight and hepatic Mn content . This suggests that while Mn deficiency may not directly impact lipid profiles, it can still affect overall health and growth.
Manganese Deficiency in Plant Health
Impact on Photosystem II and Plant Growth
Mn is vital for plant growth, particularly for the stability and functionality of Photosystem II (PSII) in the oxygen-evolving complex (OEC). Mn deficiency can severely impair PSII, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health . This deficiency often occurs without visible symptoms, making it a hidden yet significant issue that can restrict crop productivity.
Soil Conditions and Mn Availability
Mn deficiency in plants is commonly associated with specific soil conditions, such as high pH levels and high organic matter content, which reduce Mn bioavailability 78. Soils with high calcium carbonate content or those that are heavily limed can also exacerbate Mn deficiency, leading to characteristic diseases like grey speck disease in oats and chlorosis in spinach . Understanding and managing soil conditions are crucial for preventing Mn deficiency in crops.
Human Health Concerns
Dietary Intake and Potential Deficiency
In humans, Mn is essential for several enzymatic processes, including those involved in antioxidant defense and carbohydrate metabolism. Although Mn deficiency is rare in free-living populations in North America due to a diverse food supply, certain conditions, such as a vegetarian diet or iron deficiency, can increase the risk of Mn deficiency or toxicity . Low Mn-dependent superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) activity has been linked to increased cancer susceptibility, indicating the need for further research on Mn's role in human health .
Biomarkers and Health Monitoring
Identifying sensitive biomarkers for Mn status is critical for early detection of deficiency or toxicity. Serum Mn concentrations, combined with lymphocyte MnSOD activity and blood arginase activity, are considered effective for monitoring Mn intake . These biomarkers can help in assessing Mn status before severe symptoms, such as bone deformities or neurological issues, become apparent.
Conclusion
Manganese is an essential micronutrient with significant roles in both animal and plant health. Mn deficiency can lead to various metabolic and physiological disruptions, highlighting the importance of adequate Mn intake and soil management practices. Further research and improved monitoring techniques are necessary to better understand and mitigate the impacts of Mn deficiency in both agricultural and human health contexts.
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