DNA methylation profile of essential hypertension in a Xinjiang Kazak population in China

Abstract

Background The Kazak people have the highest rate of essential hypertension among all ethnic groups in the pasturing area of Nanshan in Xinjiang, China. This study is to identify DNA methylation profile of essential hypertension in a Xinjiang Kazak population, China. Methods The differentially methylated DNA sites were screened using gene chip technology, and analyzed by GO and KEGG. RT-PCR and Western blotting were used to measure mRNA and protein levels. Results There were significant methylation differences between patients with essential hypertension and control candidates at 427 sites. These sites were located on different chromosomes, mostly on Chromosomes 1 and 6. Differentially methylated genes were mainly involved in biological processes involving the biosynthesis and metabolism of protein, vascular development, cell adhesion, collagen binding, and aging. Chondroitin sulfate biosynthesis, and the insulin signaling, endocytosis, immune pathways, and other metabolic pathways were also identified. Compared with the control group, ECE-1 was significantly upregulated while eNOS was significantly downregulated in hypertension patients (P < 0. 05). Conclusion The DNA methylation profiles of Kazaks with essential hypertension are established. Our findings may provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of essential hypertension.