Helicobacter pylori phospholipase (PldA)

Helicobacter pylori phospholipases, particularly the outer membrane phospholipase A (PldA), are essential enzymes that facilitate the colonization and pathogenesis of the bacterium in the human stomach (PMID: 11281358). These enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of phospholipids within the gastric mucosal layer and host cell membranes, leading to the breakdown of the protective barrier (PMID: 9434863). The resulting release of lysophospholipids and arachidonic acid serves as a precursor for inflammatory mediators, which drive the development of gastritis and peptic ulcers (PMID: 10454345). Furthermore, phospholipase activity is linked to the induction of apoptosis in gastric epithelial cells and the promotion of gastric carcinogenesis (PMID: 15613701). While not the primary target of standard antibiotics, these enzymes are inhibited by bismuth salts, such as bismuth subsalicylate, which helps protect the gastric mucosa during infection (PMID: 8845020). Research into specific small-molecule inhibitors continues as a means to attenuate H. pylori virulence without relying solely on traditional antibiotics.

Other names

Outer membrane phospholipase APldAPhospholipase A1Phospholipase A2Phospholipase CH. pylori PLA

Bismuth compounds and experimental inhibitors bind to or interfere with the active site of the phospholipase enzymes, preventing the degradation of host phospholipids and the subsequent inflammatory cascade (PMID: 8845020).