Hematological alterations induced by chronic exposure to manganese chloride in wistar rats: a nanotechnology-based perspective on nanoscale hematotoxicity

Abstract

Manganese (Mn) is an essential trace element required for several physiological processes; however, chronic exposure can lead to systemic toxicity. The present study investigates the hematological alterations induced by prolonged oral exposure to manganese chloride (MnCl₂) in adult male Wistar rats. Twenty-four rats were divided into two groups: a control group receiving saline and an exposed group treated orally with MnCl₂ (4.79 mg Mn·L⁻¹) for twelve weeks. Hematological parameters including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), thrombocytes, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. Blood smears were examined for morphological changes. Chronic Mn exposure significantly (p < 0.05) decreased RBC, WBC, and platelet counts, along with MCV values, indicating the development of microcytic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Blood smears revealed poikilocytosis, microcytosis, erythrocyte rouleaux formation, and acanthocytosis. Leukocyte abnormalities such as naked lymphocytes and the presence of blast-like cells were also observed. These findings demonstrate that chronic manganese exposure induces hematological disorders, possibly through iron antagonism and bone marrow suppression, emphasizing the need for stricter control of manganese exposure in occupational and environmental settings. In addition, nanotechnology-based approaches offer deeper insight into manganese-induced hematotoxicity by enabling nanoscale evaluation of oxidative stress, cellular damage, and inflammatory responses, which may support the development of advanced diagnostic and protective strategies.