Assessment of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on the development of osteoarthritis (OA): An animal study

Abstract

OA is characterized as articular cartilage degeneration, & a recent study shows that MSM supplementation is clinically effective (1). The mechanism, however, is still unclear. We examined the effect of MSM in OA.The ACL was transected in the right knee joints of mature NZW rabbits (n=10) (2). 5 wks after ACLT, MSM constant delivery system to the joint was created by implanting an Alzet osmotic pump. In the control group no add’l treatment was done. The rabbits were sac’d 9 wks postop, & OA grades of the femoral surface were: (Grade I intact surface; Grade II minimal fibrillation; Grade III overt fibrillation; & Grade IV erosion of the articular cartilage surface) (2).Results showed 2 Grade III & 1 Grade IV (avg 3.3) in the control group (ACLT). The MSM‐treated group showed 1 Grade I, 3 Grade II, 1 Grade III & 2 Grade IV (avg 2.6). Expression of type II collagen and aggrecan on cartilage showed no difference between control (ACLT) & experimental groups, however expression of TNF‐α in both cartilage and synovial tissue was decreased (p<0.01).MSM has preserved the articular cartilage surface during development of OA & relieved the inflammation level (i.e. TNF‐α) in both cartilage & synovium statistically. MSM therapy is a potential application for non‐invasive treatment of OA joints.Support from Bergstrom Nutrition and UCSD Ortho Connective Tissue Rsrch.