Neurotoxic effects of aluminum and manganese: From molecular to clinical effects

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Toxicology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Aluminum (Al) and manganese (Mn) are known neurotoxicants.
• Overexposure can induce oxidative stress, apoptosis, synaptic dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and cytoskeletal damage.
• Systematic evidence linking these metals to specific neurological diseases is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing data on the contribution of Al and Mn exposure to brain diseases and their symptoms.
• To summarize the current understanding of the role of these metals in neurological pathologies.
• To highlight the need for further research to establish causal relationships.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on Al and Mn neurotoxicity.
• Analysis of data linking metal exposure to neurological conditions.
• Synthesis of evidence for causal relationships in disease development.

Main Results:

• High doses of Mn are causally linked to parkinsonism.
• Al overload is a key factor in dialysis encephalopathy.
• Al and Mn overexposure are associated with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Laboratory studies suggest a role in molecular pathogenesis, but clinical evidence for causality is insufficient.

Conclusions:

• While Al and Mn show potential in contributing to neurological disease pathogenesis, clinical evidence for a causal role is still insufficient.
• Further estimation of metal contribution is crucial for developing effective diagnostics and prevention strategies.
• Understanding the impact of Al and Mn exposure is essential for public health concerning neurological disorders.