It is a trace mineral which acts as a catalyst in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol and mucopolysaccharides.
Manganese has been related to lipid metabolism via its lipotrophic action and participation in cholesterol synthesis.
A 1946 study observed that manganese, as well as choline, prevented the deposition of excessive fat in the liver.
The early studies of Curran in 1954 suggested that in-vitro synthesis of cholesterol and fatty acids was influenced by specific trace metals. Thus, chromium and manganese were stimulatory, and iron and vanadium were inhibitory on hepatic lipid synthesis.
Because manganese seems to be needed in cholesterol synthesis, which is important to sex hormone formation, it may be essential in normal sexuality and reproduction.
Manganese as a catalyst
