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

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.