Experimental Production of Early Brain Lesions in Rats by Parenteral Administration of Manganese Chloride

Attempts have been made to produce early brain lesions in rats by the daily intraperitoneal administration of manganese chloride (8 mg/kg) for a period of 180 days. Neuropathological examination performed at various intervals showed scattered neuronal degeneration in the cerebral and cerebellar cortex at 120 days which increased in intensity up to 180 days. The manganese concentration in the brain also showed a significant increase. The extent of the brain lesions was directly related to the amount of manganese in the brain tissue which increased with time.