Helicobacter pylori toxin

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that causes chronic inflammation (infection) in the stomach and duodenum, and is a common contagious cause of ulcers. The toxic factors produced by H. pylori can act at different levels. At the epithelial cell level H. pylori enzymes generate toxic molecules: ammonia (urease), lysolecithin (phospholipases) and acetaldehyde (alcohol dehydrogenase). H. pylori are adapted to live in the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach. These bacteria can change the environment around them and reduce its acidity so they can survive. The shape of H. pylori allows them to penetrate your stomach lining, where they’re protected by mucus and your body’s immune cells are not able to reach them.

Related Journals

Journal of Medical Microbiology, European Journal of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Toxicology, Natural Toxins