Ameliorative role of metformin on lipopolysaccharide-mediated liver malfunction through suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress in rats

Liver is susceptible to oxidative stress and inflammation. The effect of metformin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated liver malfunction was investigated. Rats were grouped into (1) control, (2) LPS, (3-5) LPS as well as 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg of metformin for 5 weeks. LPS increased liver enzymes, IL-6, and malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05 andp < 0.001) whereas metformin reduced them (p < 0.05 top < 0.001). LPS decreased total protein, albumin, total thiol, SOD and CAT (p < 0.05 andp < 0.001), and metformin attenuated the effect of LPS (p < 0.05 top < 0.001). The protective effect of metformin is probably mediated via suppression of inflammation and improvement of oxidative stress status.