The distribution of Mn2+ in rabbit eyes after topical administration for manganese-enhanced MRI

Shenzhi Liang1, Miao Liang2, Yu Zhu1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, China.

Abstract

Insights

Manganese (Mn2+) rapidly distributes into the aqueous humor after topical eye drops, but vitreous humor concentrations remain low. Manganese-enhanced MRI (MEMRI) shows significant aqueous humor enhancement, suggesting potential for ocular imaging.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Pharmacokinetics

Background:

  • Manganese-enhanced MRI (MEMRI) is an emerging technique for visualizing biological structures.
  • Understanding the distribution kinetics of manganese (Mn2+) after topical ocular administration is crucial for optimizing MEMRI protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the distribution and concentration of Mn2+ in rabbit ocular tissues following topical instillation of manganese chloride (MnCl2).
  • To evaluate the utility of MEMRI for assessing Mn2+ distribution in the eye.

Main Methods:

  • Forty-eight rabbits received topical MnCl2. Aqueous, vitreous, and serum samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) at various time points.
  • Dynamic MEMRI was performed, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) was calculated to quantify ocular enhancement.

Main Results:

  • Peak Mn2+ concentration in aqueous humor was observed at 2 hours (11.16 ± 0.72 μmol/L), while peak vitreous concentration was lower and delayed (1.56 ± 0.16 μmol/L at 12 hours).
  • MEMRI demonstrated maximum aqueous humor enhancement (SNR = 108.81 ± 10.65) at 2 hours post-instillation.
  • No significant Mn2+ enhancement was detected in the vitreous humor via MEMRI.

Conclusions:

  • Topical MnCl2 leads to rapid Mn2+ distribution into the anterior chamber (aqueous humor) of the eye.
  • Vitreous humor shows limited and fluctuating Mn2+ concentrations, suggesting restricted penetration or clearance.
  • The differential distribution highlights the potential of MEMRI for targeted imaging of anterior ocular structures.

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