How does MSM work?

MSM works through several different mechanisms. MSM inhibits the proinflammatory nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway, leading to lower levels of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The inhibition of the NF-κB pathway may also inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), an enzyme that plays a role in inflammation.^[1] The reduction in COX2 and the inhibition of inflammatory cytokines can also have antioxidant effects, as they regulate the generation of reactive oxygen species. MSM (and other sulfur-containing compounds) also regulates immune function, potentially inhibiting interleukin-6 and modulating cell death in certain types of cancer cells. MSM may also promote cartilage and bone health by stimulating signal molecules that promote osteogenesis (the formation/development of bone) and cartilage differentiation. These effects have been demonstrated in in vitro studies and in animal studies, and more research is needed to clarify the mechanisms through which MSM works in humans.^[1][2]