Helicobacter pylori cell envelope and enzymes

Helicobacter pylori cell envelope and enzymes represent a collective group of bacterial targets essential for the survival and pathogenicity of H. pylori in the human stomach [1]. The cell envelope serves as a protective barrier and a platform for adhesion to gastric epithelial cells, while enzymes like urease allow the bacterium to survive the acidic environment by producing ammonia [1, 3]. Bismuth subsalicylate acts as a multi-target antimicrobial agent that interacts with these components to eradicate the infection [2]. It binds to the bacterial cell wall, leading to structural disruption and eventual cell lysis [3]. Furthermore, bismuth ions inhibit the activity of urease and other metabolic enzymes, effectively starving the bacteria and making them susceptible to gastric acid [1, 3]. This target complex is a cornerstone of bismuth-based quadruple therapy, which is used to treat peptic ulcers and prevent gastric cancer [4]. Because bismuth targets multiple pathways, it remains effective even against strains that have developed resistance to conventional antibiotics [4].

Other names

Helicobacter pylori ureaseH. pylori cell wallBacterial ureaseH. pylori surface proteinsH. pylori metabolic enzymes

Bismuth subsalicylate exerts bactericidal effects by disrupting the bacterial cell wall, inhibiting the urease enzyme to prevent acid neutralization, and interfering with bacterial adhesion and protein synthesis [1, 3].