HELICOBACTER PYLORI
Electron micrograph of Helicobacter pylori, showing
flagella at its anterior end. These flagella facilitate
H. pylori's rapid movement and its ability to burrow into
the
mucoid layer of the stomach lining.
Helicobacter pylori is a species of bacteria that is responsible for a majority of stomach ulcers and a predominance of cases of chronic gastritis. These bacteria act to weaken the protective coating of the stomach, allowing digestive acids to irritate the stomach lining.
Greater than 50% of the world's population has a Helicobacter pylori infection. Among these, over 80% display no symptoms. Incidence is highest in developing countries.
H. pylori produces large quantities of urease. This is an enzyme that breaks down urea, a molecule that normally is secreted into the stomach, into carbon dioxide and ammonia. The ammonia is toxic to the epithelial cells of the stomach lining, and, along with other bi-products of H. pylori metabolism, damages those cells.
Additional Information about Helicobacter pylori
Helicobacter pylori from the National Institutes of Health (USA)
Helicobacter pylori from the Nemours Foundation
Related Topics
Dyspepsia
Gastroenteritis
Esophagitis
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Hypochlorhydria
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