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Published on: September 21, 2014
Accumulation of methylsulfonylmethane in the human brain: identification by multinuclear magnetic resonance
1MR Spectroscopy Unit, Huntington Medical Research Institutes, 660 South Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA.
Abstract:
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a widely available 'alternative' medicine. In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was used to detect and quantify MSM in the brains of four patients with memory loss and in three normal volunteers all of who had ingested MSM at the recommended doses of 1-3 g daily. MSM was detected in all subjects at concentrations of 0.42-3.40 mmole/kg brain and was equally distributed between gray and white matter. MSM was undetectable in drug-naïve normal subjects (N=25), patients screened for 'toxic exposure' (N=50) or patients examined with 1H MRS for the diagnosis of probable Alzheimer Disease (N=520) between 1991 and 2001. No adverse clinical or neurochemical effects were observed. Appearance of MSM in significant concentrations in the human brain indicates ready transfer across the intact blood-brain barrier, of a compound with no known medical benefits.
Insights
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) crosses the blood-brain barrier into the human brain. This alternative medicine was detected in subjects taking it, but not in others, with no observed adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a popular alternative medicine.
- Its presence and effects within the human brain are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and quantify Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the human brain using in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).
- To assess the blood-brain barrier (BBB) transfer of MSM.
Main Methods:
- In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was employed.
- MSM concentrations were measured in the brains of individuals who had ingested MSM and in control groups.
Main Results:
- MSM was detected in all subjects who ingested it (0.42-3.40 mmole/kg brain), equally in gray and white matter.
- MSM was undetectable in drug-naïve subjects, patients screened for toxic exposure, and those examined for Alzheimer's disease.
- No adverse clinical or neurochemical effects were observed.
Conclusions:
- MSM readily crosses the intact blood-brain barrier.
- The presence of MSM in the brain was solely attributable to ingestion.
- MSM has no known medical benefits despite its brain penetration.
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