Difference in DNA methylation levels of gastric c-myc, p16, and hMLH1among traditional Chinese medical syndromes for chronic atrophic gastritis

Abstract Introduction This study aimed to evaluate the difference in DNA methylation levels of c- myc , p16 , and hMLH1 among traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndromes and also investigate the relationship between chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG). Methods A total of 192 patients endoscopically diagnosed with CAG TCM syndromes were selected based on previous questionnaire studies. Pyrosequencing was used to detect DNA methylation of gastric c- myc , p16 , and hMLH1 genes. The difference and correction in DNA methylation levels of gastric c- myc , p16 , and hMLH1 genes in different TCM syndromes were analyzed. Results The methylation rate of c- myc and p16 genes among different TCM syndromes showed significant differences. The descending order for the methylation rates of c- myc gene was as follows: stomach heat impairing yin > stasis toxin stagnation > phlegm–dampness coagulation > deficiency of cold in spleen and stomach > deficiency of qi and blood > liver–stomach disharmony. The descending order for p16 gene was as follows: liver–stomach disharmony > deficiency of cold in spleen and stomach > deficiency of qi and blood > stomach heat impairing yin > stasis toxin stagnation. Conclusions The methylation rates of c- myc and p16 genes, but not hMLH1 gene, were correlated with different TCM syndromes. Attention and vigilence should be paid to individuals with liver–stomach disharmony, deficiency of qi and blood, and deficiency of cold in spleen and stomach who may be at risk of developing gastric cancer. Regular follow-up with endoscopy and gastric mucosal pathology examination is required for early treatment and prevention of gastric cancer.