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Morphological changes and outer membrane protein patterns in Helicobacter pylori during conversion from bacillary to
B Citterio1, A Casaroli, L Pierfelici
1Istituto di Scienze Tossicologiche Igienistiche ed Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Urbino, Urbino, Italy.
The New Microbiologica
|January 14, 2005
Summary
Helicobacter pylori transforms into a coccoid form, becoming viable but non-culturable (VBNC), indicating a survival strategy. This morphological change involves outer membrane protein alterations, impacting antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Helicobacter pylori exhibits morphological plasticity, converting from bacillary to coccoid forms.
- This transformation is linked to environmental adaptation, antibiotic resistance, and challenges in pathogen eradication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate morphological and outer membrane protein changes in H. pylori during its transition to coccoid morphology.
- To analyze the biochemical evolution of H. pylori strains over an 11-day culture period.
Main Methods:
- Cultivation of two H. pylori strains (NCTC 11639 and a clinical isolate) in a microaerophilic environment at 37°C for 11 days.
- Monitoring of morphological changes using microscopy.
- Analysis of outer membrane protein profiles and biochemical characteristics.
Main Results:
- Spiral to U- and V-shaped forms observed between days 5-8.
- Conversion to coccoid form and entry into a viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state occurred between days 9-11.
- Distinct protein pattern differences (97.4 to 45 and 30 kDa) and modified outer membrane protein profiles were identified, with intra-specific variability.
Conclusions:
- Coccoid transformation in H. pylori is associated with significant structural and outer membrane protein alterations.
- These changes represent a survival strategy for H. pylori in challenging environmental conditions.
- Understanding these transformations is crucial for developing effective eradication therapies.