TMD Analysis for Neurosensory Disorders

Argentys staff performed a genetic, statistical, and bioinformatics analysis of human genetic association data for chronic facial pain for the Regional Center for Neurosensory Disorders, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Our staff performed analysis of a case-control, genetic association study of relationships between 2,925 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and two subtypes of a commonly occurring chronic facial pain condition, temporomandibular disorder (TMD) including localized TMD and TMD with widespread pain.   The analysis included a quality review of the data and filtered the data and samples to produce clean data sets.  Standard scoring algorithms were applied to characterize the phenotypes based on results from psychosocial questionnaires.  A genetic association analysis was performed for the discovery cohort, case-control using logistic regression and considered case status as a binary dependent variable, necessitating two logistic regression models for each SNP.  A statistical pathway analysis approach was employed to identify involved biologic pathways.  SNPs were evaluated from significant pathways with multivariable binary logistic regression models to estimate a ‘‘risk index’’ for each individual.

The findings illustrate the potential for clinical classification of chronic pain based on distinct molecular profiles and genetic background.  The analysis findings are reported in the publication, “Facial pain with localized and widespread manifestations: Separate pathways of vulnerability,” Slade, et al, PAIN, 2013. Argentys personnel are referenced as authors in the manuscript.