The Characterization Of Yang-Deficiency Cold Pattern Using Bioinformatics-Based TCM Pattern Research Process Framework

ObjectiveO To summarize the characteristics of Yang-Deficiency Cold Pattern (YDCP, DCP) such as pattern and symptom distribution, and verify differently expressed genes among patients diagnosed②To seek theoretic cognition approach for integrative medical research from macro to micro level③To establish a highly practical, operatable and tailorable process framework, and design the intuitionistic diagram for TCM Pattern-Bioinformatics studyMethodsO Systematically process the epidemiologic data gathered for DCP layer by layer. Conduct multi-angle in-depth data analysis from a practical point of view. Elaborate and discuss the analytical result with TCM theory②Conduct epidemiologic investigation using Quatitative Assessment Form for DCP in conjunction with multi-expert single-blindness pattern-differentiation method. Blood samples were collected from experiement group and control group for Q-PCR experiment to validate differentially expressed genes found in previous study③Adopt the broadly used idea, method and experience applied in modularized software engineering discipline to design and establish a concrete, individualized, maneuverable and tailorable process model for intersective and penetrative Pattern-Bioinformatics study Results①34～37% people are affected by DCP among the total population in a 13-year accumulative epidemiologic study in Pengzhou, Sichuan, mostly having combination DCP (i.e. DCP that affecting two or more Zang-organs).53% of the affected have Heart-Spleen-Kidney YD,21% Spleen-Kidney YD, and 12% Heart-Kidney YD. Fewer have one-Zang organ DCP, with Kidney DCP contributing to 5% of the total affected. People with Kidney DCP symptoms and signs, regardless of one-Zang organ or combination DCP, contribute to 93% of the total DCP population②Real-time Q-PCR analysis shows:1). NDUFV1, NDUFA1, ATP6V0D1, ATP5C1 and ATP4A have higher expression among experiment group; 2) ENO1 and P2RX5 have lower expression, with the latter as repetitive test; 3) ACLY, GAPDH and CYC1 do not show obvious difference among the two groups; 4) T test shows statistic significance between the two groups regarding ATP6V0D1 and ATP4A③Designed and built a process framework for TCM Pattern-Bioinformatics Study, including the blueprint of the overall model and disseminated process steps, accompanied with verbal description and explanationConclusion①Sampling of practical methodology—demonstration of comprehensive data processing methodology for TCM Pattern-Bioinformatics researchIt is the key to choose the right set of methods in solving the puzzlement brought with tremendous amount of data. At the same time, it raises more confusion with the introduction of diverse analyzing tools and software. Massive data can be translated into useful information only with the correct set of processing the analyzing tools, providing feasibility for TCM Pattern-Bioinformatics Study.②Process framework—cross-platform and interdisciplinary bioinformatics process model Data management issues in scientific studies can be resolved with good process, which is extracted and concluded through actual field practice. A specific process consists of a set of well-organized methods and platforms following certain procedures. The design of a process with flexibility needs to delegate both the similarities and individual differences of TCM Pattern study. It is necessary to determine the goal of a specific study in order to tailor a unique process well-fit for it.