Manganese chloride tetrahydrate

Manganese chloride tetrahydrate is an inorganic compound that serves as a vital source of manganese, an essential trace element required for the proper functioning of numerous enzymes [1, 2]. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes such as manganese superoxide dismutase, which protects mitochondria from oxidative stress, and arginase, which is essential for the urea cycle [3]. Clinically, it is administered in total parenteral nutrition to prevent manganese deficiency, which can manifest as impaired growth and skeletal abnormalities [2]. Additionally, it is utilized in research as a contrast agent for Manganese-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MEMRI) because the Mn2+ ion is a paramagnetic analog of calcium that can enter active neurons [4]. Despite its necessity, chronic overexposure to manganese chloride can lead to a severe neurological syndrome known as manganism, which shares clinical features with Parkinson's disease due to its accumulation in the brain's basal ganglia [4, 5].

Other names

Manganous chloride tetrahydrateManganese(II) chloride tetrahydrateManganese dichloride tetrahydrate

Manganese chloride tetrahydrate provides divalent manganese ions (Mn2+) that serve as essential metallic cofactors for enzymes like manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and arginase [1, 2]. In imaging applications, Mn2+ acts as a paramagnetic T1 contrast agent that enters excitable cells via voltage-gated calcium channels, allowing for the visualization of neuronal activity and anatomical connectivity [4].