Metformin in Diabetes Management and Immune Modulation:  A Comprehensive Review

Mehrangiz  Ghafari; Javad  Poursamimi; Foroogh  Asli

doi:10.18502/ijaai.v25i1.20431

Mehrangiz Ghafari Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
Javad Poursamimi Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
Foroogh Asli Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijaai.v25i1.20431

Keywords: Clinical trials; Diabetes mellitus type 2; Innate immunity; Metformin; NLRP3 protein

Abstract

Metformin is a primary treatment for type 2 diabetes (T2D), well-known for its ability to lower blood glucose levels through both AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent and -independent pathways. Recent evidence suggests that metformin also possesses immunomodulatory properties, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent that extends beyond metabolic regulation. This review summarizes the current understanding of metformin's dual roles in managing diabetes and modulating the immune system. It also explores the underlying mechanisms, clinical implications, and potential directions for future research.