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Campylobacter pylori isolated from the stomach of the monkey, Macaca nemestrina
M A Bronsdon1, F D Schoenknecht
1Regional Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle 98105.
Abstract:
Campylobacter pylori was isolated from the gastric mucosa in 6 of 24 pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) examined by gastric biopsy and culture; 3 isolates were recovered during gastroendoscopy, and 3 were recovered at necropsy. The isolates were morphologically and biochemically similar to the human type strain NCTC 11638, differing only in colony diameter, pigmentation, and rate of growth. Identity of the isolates was confirmed by whole-genomic DNA-DNA hybridization with the type strain. Colonization of the monkey stomachs was associated with hypochlorhydria and histologic features resembling type B chronic gastritis in humans. Host animals exhibited no morbid clinical effects of colonization, although endoscopy revealed inflammation, erythema, and friable tissue in some animals. The discovery of C. pylori occurring spontaneously in M. nemestrina extends the known range of the hosts of the organism and offers the possibility of a natural or experimental model of the infection in monkeys.
Insights
Campylobacter pylori, a bacterium linked to gastritis, was found in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina). This discovery offers a potential animal model for studying H. pylori infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Campylobacter pylori (now Helicobacter pylori) is a bacterium known to infect humans.
- Its presence in non-human hosts is less understood, limiting research models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of Campylobacter pylori in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina).
- To assess the potential of these macaques as a model for studying C. pylori infections.
Main Methods:
- Gastric biopsies and cultures were performed on 24 macaques.
- Isolates were characterized morphologically and biochemically.
- Whole-genomic DNA-DNA hybridization confirmed isolate identity against the human type strain.
Main Results:
- Campylobacter pylori was isolated from 6 of 24 macaques.
- Isolates showed similarities to the human type strain, with minor differences in growth characteristics.
- Infection was associated with hypochlorhydria and gastritis-like histological changes.
- Monkeys showed no severe clinical effects but exhibited endoscopic signs of inflammation.
Conclusions:
- Campylobacter pylori can naturally colonize the stomachs of Macaca nemestrina.
- This finding expands the known host range for C. pylori.
- Macaca nemestrina represents a promising natural or experimental model for C. pylori research.