[Manganese in atherogenesis: detection, origin, and role]

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Medical Diagnostics
• Pathology

Background:

• The role of transition metal ions in atherogenesis is debated.
• These ions can influence oxidative stress by generating hydroxyl radicals or neutralizing reactive oxygen species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and role of transition metals, specifically manganese, in atherosclerotic lesions.
• To evaluate manganese as a potential biomarker for atherosclerosis diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy was used to detect superoxide dismutase activity and manganese paramagnetic centers in aorta samples.
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with degenerate primers was employed to detect the sodA gene.

Main Results:

• Superoxide dismutase activity was detected in 70% of atherosclerotic aorta samples.
• The Fenton reaction was initiated in 100% of samples, indicating the presence of manganese paramagnetic centers.
• The sodA gene, encoding manganese-dependent bacterial superoxide dismutase, was not detected in atherosclerotic plaques.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest that manganese, detected via EPR spectroscopy, is present in atherosclerotic lesions.
• Manganese analysis shows promise as a marker for the rapid diagnosis of atherosclerosis.
• The absence of the bacterial sodA gene indicates the manganese detected is likely of endogenous origin or from other sources.