Identification and Functional Assessment of Critical Genes in Macrophage M1 Polarization Induced by Helicobacter Pylori: Implications for Migraine-Related Functional Dyspepsia - Report - MDSpire

Identification and Functional Assessment of Critical Genes in Macrophage M1 Polarization Induced by Helicobacter Pylori: Implications for Migraine-Related Functional Dyspepsia

  • By

  • Nengjin Sun

  • Kaile Wang

  • Jianli Gou

  • Panpan Li

  • Xiaoyan Fu

  • Wenjing Shi

  • Jing Li

  • Miao Xiang

  • Shenglin Sun

  • Zihan Sun

  • Shujuan Liang

  • Yuying Zhang

  • Hongyan Wang

  • April 28, 2026

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Clinical Report: Identification and Functional Assessment of Critical Genes in Macrophage M1 Polarization Induced by Helicobacter Pylori

Overview

This study identifies critical genes involved in M1 macrophage polarization linked to Helicobacter pylori infection, which may contribute to migraine and functional dyspepsia. Four hub genes—PNOC, ICAM1, MMP9, and NFE2L1—were found to regulate inflammatory responses and neuronal signaling.

Background

Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder often associated with functional dyspepsia, a condition characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms without structural disease. The role of Helicobacter pylori in exacerbating these conditions through neuroimmune pathways highlights the need for understanding the molecular mechanisms involved. Identifying critical genes involved in this process may provide insights into potential therapeutic targets.

Data Highlights

GeneExpression ChangeCorrelation with M1 Markers
PNOCUpregulatedPositive
ICAM1UpregulatedPositive
MMP9UpregulatedPositive
NFE2L1No significant correlationIncreased M1 markers upon knockdown

Key Findings

  • 683 differentially expressed genes were identified in H. pylori-infected patients.
  • M1 macrophage polarization was prominent, with increased γδT cells and B lymphocytes.
  • PNOC, ICAM1, MMP9, and NFE2L1 were identified as key hub genes regulating M1 polarization.
  • Knockdown of PNOC, ICAM1, and MMP9 reduced M1 marker expression, while NFE2L1 knockdown increased it.
  • PNOC positively correlated with CALCA, suggesting a link between macrophage activity and neuronal CGRP expression.

Clinical Implications

Understanding the role of these hub genes in M1 macrophage polarization may inform treatment strategies for migraine and functional dyspepsia, particularly in patients with H. pylori infection. Targeting these pathways could enhance therapeutic outcomes by addressing the underlying neuroimmune dysregulation.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the involvement of H. pylori in migraine and functional dyspepsia through M1 macrophage polarization and neuroimmune signaling. Further research may lead to targeted therapies that address these interconnected conditions.

Related Resources & Content

  1. BMC Psychiatry, Springer, 2025 -- Mechanisms of Comorbidity and Neuroimmune Dysregulation in Major Depressive Disorder and Migraine
  2. The ASCO Post, 2014 -- High Macrophage Inhibitory Cytokine-1 Levels and Colorectal Cancer Risk
  3. Basic Research in Cardiology, 2016 -- Interactions Between Macrophages and Atrial Myocytes in Atrial Fibrillation
  4. Official journal of the American College of Gastroenterology | ACG, 2024 -- ACG Clinical Guideline: Treatment of Helicobacter pylori
  5. Efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy for functional dyspepsia: updated systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed
  6. Macrophage biology in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori infection, PubMed
  7. The ASCO Post — High Macrophage Inhibitory Cytokine-1 Levels and Colorectal Cancer Risk
  8. Official journal of the American College of Gastroenterology | ACG
  9. Efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy for functional dyspepsia: updated systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed
  10. Macrophage biology in the pathogenesis of Helicobacter pylori infection - PubMed

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