Some manganese potentialities for modification of solid-state electrodes are discussed in the work. In particular, the ability of Mn2+ to incorporate easily thin lipid films deposited on to the electrode surface is stressed. The voltammetric analysis of thus modified glassy carbon electrodes (GCE) reveals possibilities for driving redox reactions in the electrolyte. The results suggest a transfer of electrons across the lipid phase mediated through the transitions of the embedded manganese. On the other hand, at higher concentrations the Mn2+ integration within the supported liquid films leads to changes in their structural parameters, evident from impedance data. In this respect, a comparison with the action of Ca2+ and Mg2+ shows a somewhat stronger impact of the Mn2+ ions. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.