Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring, organosulfur compound present in plants, animals, and humans, and also produced synthetically for use as a dietary supplement. It is widely marketed for supporting joint health, reducing inflammation, and as an antioxidant, but demonstrates only preliminary or anecdotal support for clinical efficacy. Mechanistically, MSM appears to inhibit inflammatory signaling via NF-κB, suppress some STAT-dependent cancer cell pathways, and bolster antioxidant defenses, but these effects are mostly demonstrated in vitro or animal models rather than validated human trials. MSM is not a canonical molecular drug target or receptor, and the acronym "MSM" does not stand for a protein or nucleic acid therapeutic target in major scientific databases[1][3]. If "MSM" was intended as a molecular target (such as a protein, receptor or gene), this entry is incorrect, and more specific context or correct spelling is needed. Current evidence indicates MSM is a supplement ingredient, not a canonical drug target.

Other names

dimethyl sulfoneDMSO2methyl sulfonesulfonylbismethaneorganic sulfurcrystalline dimethyl sulfoxideGlucosamine & Chondroitin with MSMFlex-a-minMSM glucosamine chondroitinOsteo BiFlex plus MSMTriflex

Inhibits NF-κB pathway activity, resulting in reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α Represses STAT transcription factors (including STAT3/5b) and associated oncogenic pathways, exhibits antioxidant effects via Nrf2 regulation, and may affect the Jak/STAT pathway Induces changes in microtubule assembly and actin filaments in cancer cell lines