Speciation analysis and fractionation of manganese: A review Original paper

What was reviewed?

This review provides an in-depth analysis of the speciation and fractionation of manganese (Mn) across various environmental and biological matrices, including water, soil, plants, animals, and polluted environments. It discusses the methods used for manganese determination, such as extraction techniques, spectroscopic methods, and the challenges associated with analyzing manganese species in complex matrices.

Who was reviewed?

The review synthesized existing research from various studies on manganese speciation and fractionation, presenting findings from environmental and biological sample analyses. It covered the work of several organizations and researchers, providing insights into manganese’s role in the environment, its bioavailability, and its toxicological effects.

What were the most important findings?

The review highlighted the importance of manganese in biological systems, particularly in its various oxidation states, which influence its bioavailability, toxicity, and role in enzyme activation. Manganese in its divalent form (Mn²⁺) is the most stable and widely available for biological uptake, though it also exists in higher oxidation states in different matrices. The study detailed the methods used for manganese speciation, which are essential for understanding its role in both environmental and biological contexts. These methods include extraction techniques and multistep procedures, along with more advanced hyphenated techniques like liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). It also emphasized the challenges of analyzing manganese due to its variable oxidation states and interactions with other elements, which can affect its stability in different samples. Special attention was given to manganese’s role in plant uptake, animal metabolism, and its accumulation in environmental pollutants.

What are the greatest implications of this review?

The review underscores the critical importance of manganese speciation analysis for understanding its environmental and biological implications, including its toxicity when accumulated in excess. The findings have significant implications for environmental monitoring, health assessments, and the development of strategies for managing manganese exposure in industrial and polluted settings. The information is particularly valuable for clinicians and environmental scientists concerned with manganese’s neurotoxic effects, as well as its role in diseases such as Parkinsonism. Moreover, the study’s emphasis on the variety of methods for speciation analysis aids in improving detection and understanding manganese’s behavior in different environments, contributing to better risk assessments and policy-making.