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Molecular mimicry of ferret gastric epithelial blood group antigen A by Helicobacter mustelae

T O Cróinín1, M Clyne, B Drumm

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, University College Dublin, The Children's Research Centre, Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Dublin, Ireland.

Gastroenterology
|April 18, 1998
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Helicobacter mustelae expresses a blood group-like antigen on its lipopolysaccharide, mimicking host gastric cells for immune evasion. This mimicry may contribute to gastritis pathogenesis in ferrets.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Helicobacter pylori uses molecular mimicry of Lewis blood group antigens for immune evasion and chronic atrophic gastritis.
  • Helicobacter mustelae causes gastritis and potentially ulcers in ferrets.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if Helicobacter mustelae exhibits molecular mimicry similar to H. pylori.

Main Methods:

  • Antibodies against H. mustelae were used for immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry on ferret gastric tissue.
  • Epitope characterization involved proteinase K and sodium metaperiodate treatment.

Main Results:

  • H. mustelae antiserum cross-reacted with ferret gastric tissue.
  • Absorption studies indicated antibodies recognized a blood group A-like antigen on ferret gastric cells and H. mustelae lipopolysaccharide.

Conclusions:

  • H. mustelae lipopolysaccharide contains a blood group-like antigen, facilitating immune evasion through mimicry of gastric cells.
  • Cross-reactivity suggests autoantibodies might play a role in H. mustelae-induced gastritis pathogenesis in ferrets.

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