The effect of matrine on the lipopolysacchride (LPS)-induced tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-6 production from rat Kupffer cell was investigated. Results showed that matrine 125, 250 and 500 mg.L-1 suppressed TNF and IL-6 production from Cal-primed Kupffer cells in the presence of lipopolysacchrides (LPS, 100 micrograms.L-1) in a concentration-dependent manner. Treatment with matrine 50 and 100 mg.kg-1 before LPS injection(3.5 mg.kg-1) markedly decreased mouse serum TNF and IL-6. The results suggest that matrine may have protective effect on LPS-induced liver injury.