Enterohepatic Helicobacters: natural and experimental models.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• The genus Helicobacter encompasses over 18 named species, with several novel strains yet to be formally identified.
• Eleven Helicobacter species are known to colonize the intestinal tracts of mammals and birds.
• Some intestinal Helicobacter species can also colonize the biliary tract and liver, potentially causing hepatitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of Helicobacter species and their impact on mammalian and avian hosts.
• To highlight the pathogenic potential of Helicobacter hepaticus, specifically its ability to induce liver cancer in mice.
• To emphasize the need for further investigation into the role of these bacteria in human enterohepatic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of Helicobacter genus classification and host colonization.
• Analysis of studies detailing Helicobacter-induced pathologies, including hepatitis and carcinogenesis.
• Identification of knowledge gaps concerning human infections.

Main Results:

• The Helicobacter genus is diverse, with significant intestinal colonization observed in various animal models.
• Helicobacter hepaticus has been identified as a causative agent of liver cancer in susceptible mouse strains.
• The potential for Helicobacter species to cause human enterohepatic diseases remains largely uncharacterized.

Conclusions:

• Helicobacter species represent a significant group of bacteria with diverse host associations and pathogenic potentials.
• Helicobacter hepaticus serves as a relevant model for studying bacterial-induced liver cancer.
• Further research is crucial to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of Helicobacter infections in human enterohepatic diseases.