The effects of chronic manganese administration on blood pressure in rats

Abstract

Recently it was observed that several trace elements, including manganese (Mn), can affect the cardiovascular system and have been implicated in certain cardiovascular disease mechanisms. However, to date the effects of Mn on the vascular system, such as in the control of blood flow and blood pressure, are not completely understood. The main objective of the present study was to determine the effects of a 45-day exposure to two different doses of Mn, on blood pressure values of male Wistar rats. Our results show a significant time effect (p<0.001, ANOVA, repeated measures) on blood pressure during the 45 days of chronic Mn treatment with two doses of Mn (3 mg/kg/day; 10 mg/kg/day). Additionally, we observed significant differences in blood pressure, especially on days 2 (p<0.001), 9 (p<0.05), 24 (p<0.05), 28 (p<0.01) and 43 (p<0.05). Further studies are necessary in order to establish the mechanism and relevance of Mn.

Keywords

• manganese
• chronic administration
• blood pressure
• rat