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Bacteriophages in Helicobacter (Campylobacter) pylori
E N Schmid1, G von Recklinghausen, R Ansorg
1Institut für Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Universität Gesamthochschule Essen, Federal Republic of Germany.
Journal of Medical Microbiology
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, were observed in Helicobacter pylori. These phages remained stable during prolonged subculture, indicating potential for lysogeny.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Virology
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Helicobacter pylori is a significant human pathogen.
- Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and play roles in microbial ecology.
- Understanding phage-host interactions is crucial for managing bacterial infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and morphology of bacteriophages in a clinical isolate of Helicobacter pylori.
- To assess the stability of lysogeny in Helicobacter pylori under laboratory conditions.
Main Methods:
- Thin section electron microscopy was used to visualize bacteriophages within Helicobacter pylori cells.
- The clinical isolate was subcultured on blood agar for an extended period.
Main Results:
- Bacteriophages at various maturation stages were identified in thin sections of Helicobacter pylori.
- Mature phage heads measured 70 x 60 nm, with tails at least 120 nm long.
- Lysogeny was successfully maintained through more than 3 months of subculture.
Conclusions:
- Bacteriophages can infect Helicobacter pylori.
- The observed phages exhibit distinct morphological characteristics.
- Helicobacter pylori can maintain lysogeny for extended periods, suggesting stable phage-host relationships.