Effect of N-[Imino(4-morpholyl)methyl]guanidine on the oxidative status in rats with toxic hepatitis.

The hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties of a synthetic biguanide N-[imino(4-morpholyl)methyl]guanidine (IMMG) were prognosticated by the method of computer prediction. Administration of IMMG was accompanied by a decrease in serum transaminase activity in rats with toxic hepatitis, which reflects inhibition of hepatocyte cytolysis. IMMG treatment was followed by a decrease in biochemiluminescence parameters reflecting the intensity of free radical oxidation. We revealed an increase in activity of aconitase, which was reduced during toxic hepatitis. The content of citrate in the liver and serum was returned to normal under these conditions. IMMG also increased activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase and total antioxidant activity in rat liver. Our results suggest that the hepatoprotective effect of IMMG is associated with its antioxidant activity.