Genome-based expression profiles as a single standardized microarray platform for the diagnosis of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis: an array of 139 genes model

The aim of the study was to investigate the molecular signatures underlying bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) using cDNA microarray.

Microarray gene expression profiles are studied in a matched case–control studies by using a system of conditional regression modeling.

Main findings are summarized as follows: Firstly, a “139-gene” model was discovered to contain high expressions of bladder epithelium, which feature in BPS/IC. Secondly, complex metabolic reactions, including carbohydrate, lipid, cofactors, vitamins, xenobiotics, nucleotide, and amino acid metabolisms, are found to have a strong relationship with bladder smooth muscle contraction through IC status. Thirdly, we have found the transcriptional regulations of IC-induced bladder smooth muscle contraction status, including the level of contractile force, tissue homeostasis, energy homeostasis, and the development of nervous system. In addition, our study suggested the mast-cell activation mediated by the high-affinity receptor of Fc episilon RI triggering allergic inflammation through IC status. Such genetic changes, jointly termed “bladder remodeling” can constitute an important long-term consequence of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)/IC.

The success of this innovation has supported the use of microarray-based expression profiling as a single standardized platform for diagnosis of PBS/IC and offer drug discovery.