Metformin scavenges formaldehyde and attenuates formaldehyde-induced bovine serum albumin crosslinking and cellular DNA damage.

Formaldehyde (FA) can be produced in the environment and by cell metabolism and has been classified as a carcinogen in animals and humans. Metformin is the most commonly used drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Metformin also has potential benefit in cancer prevention and treatment.