Maneb
Maneb is a fungicide and a polymeric complex of manganese with the ethylene bis (dithiocarbamate) anionic ligand.
Health effects
Exposure to maneb can occur when breathed in; it can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat as well as cause headache, fatigue, nervousness, dizziness, seizures and even unconsciousness. Prolonged or long-term exposure may interfere with the function of the thyroid. Exposure to maneb is also shown to induce a Parkinson's disease like neurotoxicity in mice. The link between maneb and Parkinson's disease had been suspected since the early 2000s; however, a 2022 review concluded that maneb, alongside other pesticides like MPTP, paraquat, and rotenone, play a prominent role in the development of the disease. More investigation is needed to investigate its underlying mechanism of action.
Production
Manganese ethylenebis of low ethylenethiourea content is prepared by mixing disodium ethylenebis with formaldehyde in aqueous medium then mixing a water-soluble manganese salt to precipitate the maneb. The product can be further formulated with a metal salt and also with paraformaldehyde.
Applications
Maneb, is a broad spectrum fungicide that is extensively applied against a wide range of fungal pathogens affecting ornamental plants, food and feed crops. It can also be used to create a toxin-based animal model of Parkinson's disease, usually in primates.
Regulation
Maneb was included in a pesticide ban proposed by the Swedish Chemicals Agency and approved by the European Parliament on January 13, 2009.