MSM and Joint Health (Part 4)

Research performed at the University of California at San Diego looked at the effect MSM has on cartilage.  (published in the Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Journal,available online December 27, 2007). This was an “in vitro” study, meaning that the researchers looked at cartilage that was outside of the body. They were concerned with cytokines, which are chemicals produced during inflammation and associated with damage done to joints. MSM acted to reduce the effect of the cytokines and act to protect the cartilage.  According to the head of the research team, “It suggests that MSM acts as a barrier, shielding cartilage in early stages of osteoarthritis from further degeneration from inflammatory cytokines and cartilage degrading enzymes.” Of course this type of cartilage strengthening can also be valuable for helping to stabilize the joint and prevent injuries.