Methylsulfonylmethane enhances MSC chondrogenic commitment and promotes pre-osteoblasts formation.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Nutraceutical Science

Background:

• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a nutraceutical with potential benefits for osteoarthritis.
• MSM has been shown to influence osteoblast differentiation.
• Limited research exists on MSM's effects on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiation, particularly concerning both osteogenic and chondrogenic pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of MSM on chondrogenesis and osteogenesis.
• To analyze the expression of key transcription factors (SOX9, RUNX2, SP7) involved in differentiation.
• To evaluate MSM's impact on MSC differentiation in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• In vitro studies using MSC and chondrocyte cell lines.
• In vivo studies utilizing a zebrafish model.
• Analysis of gene and protein expression via real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence.
• Specific in vitro and in vivo staining techniques were employed.

Main Results:

• MSM modulated differentiation-related gene expression both in vitro and in vivo.
• Increased SOX9 expression indicated MSM promotes chondrogenesis.
• Increased SP7 expression suggests MSM aids preosteoblast formation, while RUNX2 was less affected.
• Reduced RANK expression and pERK/ERK ratio were observed in MSM-treated zebrafish.

Conclusions:

• MSM influences MSC commitment and differentiation pathways.
• The study provides insights into MSM's mechanism of action.
• MSM shows promise as a therapeutic agent for skeletal degenerative diseases.