Immunomodulatory effects and potential clinical applications of dimethyl sulfoxide

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was discovered during the 19th century by the German chemical industry. DMSO comprises a highly polar group and two non-polar domains, which render it soluble in both aqueous solutions and organic solutions. Furthermore, DMSO can penetrate the cell membrane of both the mammalian cells and the non-mammalian cells and prevent freeze-thaw injuries to the cells. Thus, it is frequently used for the cryopreservation of cells and tissues for laboratory and clinical applications. In contrast to this traditional application, DMSO has recently been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects, such as immune enhancement, and anti-inflammatory effects in the innate immunity. In addition, DMSO also affects the adaptive immunity by regulating the expression of transcription factors in immune cells. This review briefly summarizes and highlights the roles and immunomodulatory effects of DMSO on the immune system and reveals the future clinical therapeutic potential of DMSO treatment in cancer, in autoimmune diseases and in chronic inflammatory diseases.