Effects of substances inhibiting or uncoupling respiratory-chain phosphorylation of Helicobacter pylori

The effects of electron transport inhibitors and uncoupling agents as well as of bismuth compounds on the respiratory activity and oxidative phosphorylation of Helicobacter pylori were investigated. Bismuth gallate and bismuth subsalicylate reduced the respiratory chain-dependent phosphorylation. Inhibition was of the same magnitude as that observed with other known inhibitors. It is concluded that bismuth displays an antibacterial effect by inhibiting the respiratory chain of H. pylori.