Quantifying systemic molecular networks affected during high altitude de-acclimatization

High altitude acclimatization and disease have been the centerpiece of investigations concerning human health at high altitude. Almost all investigations have focused on either understanding and ameliorating high altitude disease or finding better methods of acclimatization/training at high altitude. The aspect of altitude de-induction/de-acclimatization has remained clouded despite the fact that it was documented since the first decade of twentieth century. A few recent studies, particularly in China, have stated unanimously that high altitude de-acclimatization involved multiple observable clinical symptoms ranging from headache to abdominal distention. These symptoms have been collectively referred to as “high altitude de-acclimatization syndrome” (HADAS). However, computational omics and network biology centric investigations concerning HADAS are nascent. In this study, we focus on the quantitative proteo-informatics, especially network biology, of human plasma proteome in individuals who successfully descended from high altitude areas after a stay of 120 days. In brief, the protein list was uploaded into STRING and IPA to compute z-score based cut-offs which were used to analyze the directionality and significance of various identified protein networks as well as the proteins within them. Relevant upstream regulators extracted using computational strategies were also validated. Time-points till the 180th day of de-induction have been investigated to comparatively assess the changes in the plasma proteome and protein pathways of such individuals since the 7th day of arrival at altitude. Our investigation revealed extensive effects of de-induction on lipid metabolism, inflammation and innate immune system as well as coagulation system. This novel study provides a conceptual framework for formulating therapeutic strategies to ease the symptoms of HADAS during de-acclimatization. Such strategies should focus on normalization of lipid metabolism, inflammatory signaling and coagulation systems.