Characterization of morphological conversions of Helicobacter pylori under anaerobic conditions

In this study, we used scanning electron microscopy to document the anaerobiosis‐induced morphological change of H. pylori, from helical to coccoid to the newly defined fragmented form. Western blot analysis indicated that all three forms expressed certain pathogenic proteins, including the bacterial cytotoxin‐associated gene A (CagA), components of the cag‐Type IV secretion system (TFSS), the blood group antigen‐binding adhesin BabA, and UreA (apoenzyme of urease) at nearly equivalent levels. Similar urease activities were also detected in each form of H. pylori. However, in contrast to the helical form, the anaerobiosis‐induced coccoid and fragmented forms of H. pylori were abrogated for bacterial motility and TFSS activity. Notably, we demonstrated that some of the anaerobiosis‐induced fragmented state cells could be converted to proliferation‐competent helical bacteria in vitro. These results indicate that prolonged exposure to the anaerobic intestine might not eliminate the potential for H. pylori to recover into the helical pathogenic state.
Source: Microbiology and Immunology - Category: Microbiology Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research