Dimethyl sulfate is a diester of methanol and sulfuric acid. Dimethyl sulfate is commonly used as a reagent for the methylation of phenols, amines, and thiols. Dimethyl sulfate is a potent genotoxic chemical. It can directly alkylate DNA both in vitro and in vivo. It have been shown to induce mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and other genetic alterations in a diversity of organisms. Dimethyl sulfate can cause severe burns to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Systemic effects of dimethyl sulfate include damage to the liver and kidneys.

Harpagoside is an anti-inflammatory small molecule natural product originally isolated from the Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's Claw) root, but can be isolated from other plants such as Crophularia ningpoensis Hemsl (Figwort). Treatment of HepG2 cells with Harpagoside demonstrated suppression of NF-κB nuclear translocation and degradation of IκB-α, blocking NF-κB activation. Multiple anti-inflammatory cellular effects were correlated with this blockade, as Harpagoside was observed to inhibit the expression of inflammation-mediating enzymes cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and to reduce lipopolysaccharide-induced mRNA levels. The suppression of NF-κB activation is indicated as the mechanism beneath the anti-inflammatory effects of Harpagoside. Harpagoside is widely used as a folk remedy to treat rheumatic complaints.