Outer membrane phospholipase A (OMPLA) (OMPLA)

Helicobacter pylori phospholipases, particularly Outer membrane phospholipase A (OMPLA), are critical virulence factors produced by the bacterium to facilitate colonization and survival in the human stomach (Istivan et al., 1998; Dorrell et al., 1999). These enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of phospholipids in the gastric mucus and host cell membranes, leading to the breakdown of the protective mucosal barrier (Snelling et al., 1996). The resulting lysophospholipids and free fatty acids exert detergent-like effects that damage gastric epithelial cells and trigger inflammatory responses (Taneera et al., 2002). Furthermore, OMPLA activity is linked to the secretion of other toxins, such as the vacuolating cytotoxin VacA, which further exacerbates tissue damage (O'Toole et al., 2000). By degrading host lipids, these phospholipases also provide a source of nutrients for the bacteria and assist in membrane remodeling. While current H. pylori treatments rely on broad-spectrum antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors, these phospholipases represent a specific therapeutic target for disrupting bacterial pathogenesis. Experimental inhibitors aim to neutralize these enzymes to prevent mucosal injury and reduce the risk of progression to peptic ulcers or gastric adenocarcinoma. Targeting these enzymes could potentially offer a more localized treatment strategy with fewer systemic side effects compared to traditional antibiotics.

Other names

Outer membrane phospholipase APldAPhospholipase A2Phospholipase A1Helicobacter pylori PLAPhospholipase CPhospholipase D

Inhibition of bacterial phospholipase enzymatic activity to prevent the degradation of the gastric mucosal barrier and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory lysophospholipids.