Metformin's modulation of gut microbiota and its implications for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease(NAFLD): A network pharmacology and molecular dynamics study

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) involves excessive fat accumulation in the liver, with gut microbiota playing a crucial role in its development. Metformin, a common treatment for type 2 diabetes, affects gut microbiota, influencing NAFLD management. This study investigates how metformin modifies gut microbes and how these changes impact bodily functions. Using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and dynamics studies, we identified key target genes linking NAFLD and gut metabolites. Molecular dynamics revealed that AKT1 and HSP0AA1 complexes are stable in solvent environments. Additionally, GO and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that these target genes are involved in lipid metabolism pathways. Our findings enhance the understanding of metformin's impact on NAFLD through gut microbiota modulation.