Methylsulfonylmethane Applications in Health and Disease

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a small, naturally occurring organosulfur compound that has drawn interest for its broad spectrum of biological activities. Initially popularised as a dietary supplement for joint and muscle comfort, MSM exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that extend its potential into diverse therapeutic areas. Preclinical and early clinical investigations suggest that MSM modulates proinflammatory cytokine release, supports cellular antioxidant defences, and may influence cell signalling pathways involved in tissue repair and immunity. Studies in animal models of acute renal failure and pulmonary hypertension indicate protective effects on organ function via restoration of redox balance. Cellular assays further reveal that MSM can attenuate nuclear factor-κB activation under hyperglycaemic or lipopolysaccharide-stimulated conditions. Together, these findings highlight MSM’s promise as a well-tolerated supplement with applications ranging from musculoskeletal health to metabolic and inflammatory disorders.

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Methylsulfonylmethane Applications in Health and Disease publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in methylsulfonylmethane applications in health and disease across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Anti-inflammatory: Reducing the production or activity of molecules that promote inflammation.

Oxidative stress: A state in which reactive oxygen species exceed antioxidant capacity, leading to cellular damage.

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB): A protein complex that regulates genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs): Cell-surface proteins that recognise molecular patterns and activate innate immune signalling.

Bioavailability: The proportion of an ingested substance that enters the bloodstream and is available for use by the body.

References

1. Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement. Nutrients (2017).
2. The curative effects of methylsulfonylmethane against glycerol-induced acute renal failure in rats. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2018).
3. Protective Effects of Methylsulfonylmethane on Hemodynamics and Oxidative Stress in Monocrotaline‐Induced Pulmonary Hypertensive Rats. Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2012).
4. Sulfur Compounds Inhibit High Glucose-Induced Inflammation by Regulating NF-κB Signaling in Human Monocytes. Molecules (2020).
5. Natural Sulfurs Inhibit LPS-Induced Inflammatory Responses through NF-κB Signaling in CCD-986Sk Skin Fibroblasts. Life (2021).
6. Small Intestinal Absorption of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and Accumulation of the Sulfur Moiety in Selected Tissues of Mice. Nutrients (2017).
7. Effects of Dietary Organic and Inorganic Sulfur on Laying Performance, Egg Quality, Ileal Morphology, and Antioxidant Capacity in Laying Hens. Animals (2021).