S-Adenosyl-L-methionine

1.Introduction:

Dimethylsulfoxyladenosylmethionine is mainly composed of adenosylmethionine, which is a physiologically active molecule present in all tissues and body fluids of the human body. It acts as a methyl donor (transmethylation function) and a precursor of physiological thiol compounds (such as cysteine, taurine, glutathione, and coenzyme A) for the transsulfuric action in biochemical reactions within the body. In the liver, it regulates the fluidity of liver cell membranes by methylating phospholipids in the plasma membrane, and can promote the synthesis of sulfide products during detoxification through the transsulfuric reaction, reducing the levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and bilirubin, thereby achieving the purpose of protecting liver function.

2.Physiological Functions
S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAM) and Glutathione (GSH) are two important bioactive molecules in the human body. SAM, also known as adenosylmethionine, is the active form of methionine and is widely present in both plants and animals. It is synthesized enzymatically by S-adenosylmethionine synthase (Chemicalbook EC2.5.1.6) from the substrate L-methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). SAM is closely associated with many metabolic processes in the human body and serves as a biochemical drug that improves cellular metabolism. It can increase levels of GSH, sulfate, and taurine in the liver through transsulfuration, thereby preventing hepatitis, fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Additionally, it can protect the liver from damage caused by alcohol, drugs, and cytokines.

3.Biological activity
S-Adenosylmethionine, also known as S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM), is an important physiologically active substance widely present in plants, animals, and microorganisms. It plays a role in methylation, sulfation, and transamination, participating in over 40 biochemical reactions within the body. It is closely associated with the biosynthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, neurotransmitters, phospholipids, and vitamins. Additionally, it participates in the biotransformation of polyamines and glutathione. Research indicates that S-adenosylmethionine is a compound produced by the action of adenosylmethionine enzyme on methionine and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and it is a physiologically active substance present in all tissues and body fluids of the human body. As a methyl donor (methylation) and a precursor of physiological thiol compounds (such as cysteine, taurine, glutathione, and coenzyme A) (sulfuration), it participates in important biochemical reactions within the body.

4.Medical/Health Benefits
S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAM) also has excellent therapeutic effects on conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines, with minimal side effects. As early as the 1970s, Europe had already approved SAM as a prescription drug for treating arthritis. In 1999, the U.S. FDA approved SAM as a dietary supplement, and it has since become one of the best-selling nutritional supplements in the United States.

5.Chemical Properties

This product is the active form of methionine in the body.

6.Uses

Clinically used to improve liver function. Used in combination with L-dopa to treat Parkinson’s disease, it can enhance the efficacy of L-dopa and reduce side effects. Local pain at the injection site, temporary anxiety, and insomnia may occur.