ENHANCED AUTOXIDATION OF DOPAMINE AS A POSSIBLE BASIS OF MANGANESE NEUROTOXICITY

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 2  (1) , 53-64
Abstract
Autoxidation of dopamine as measured by its aminochrome formation at 480 nm was considerably potentiated by Mn++ compared to other biologically-important divalent cations (Cu++, Zn++, Ni++, Ca++ and Mg++). Effectiveness of autoxidation by metal ions was closely related to their redox potential. Mn enhanced autoxidation of dopamine was associated with increased generation of free radicals O2-, H2O2 and HO as suggested by inhibitory effects of superoxide dismutase, catalase and ethanol. Mn, by enhancing oxidation of dopamine, augmented considerably the production of neurotoxins emanating from this process and under in vivo conditions could be expected to contribute significantly to neurodegenerative changes that accompany Mg dyskinesia in man.