What role do heavy metals play in substantia nigra toxicity?
Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and manganese are known to accumulate in the brain and have been implicated in substantia nigra toxicity. These metals can disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to increased production of reactive oxygen species, and ultimately cause oxidative damage to neurons. Manganese, in particular, has been associated with parkinsonism due to its affinity for the basal ganglia and its ability to interfere with dopamine homeostasis.
