Effect of Methylsulfonylmethane on Proliferation and Apoptosis of A549 Lung Cancer Cells Through G2/M Cell-cycle Arrest and Intrinsic Cell Death Pathway.

Abstract

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a natural organic compound that displays anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant properties. MSM reportedly has potential in inhibition of tumor cells. However, molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of MSM on lung cancer remain unclear. In this study, the effect of MSM on A549 cells was examined. We focused on the mode of apoptosis induced by MSM and investigated alterations in the integrity of the outer membrane of mitochondria. Our results showed that MSM inhibited viability of A549 cells and changed the shape and permeability of nuclei. In addition, MSM induced G2/M arrest. MSM reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential and contributed to release of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytoplasm. MSM is a potential anticancer agent for the treatment of lung cancer.