Urease subunit beta (UreB) (UreB)

Helicobacter pylori Urease subunit beta (UreB) is a critical structural component of the urease enzyme complex, which is essential for the survival of H. pylori in the highly acidic environment of the human stomach. This enzyme catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, effectively neutralizing local gastric acid and creating a habitable microenvironment for the bacterium. UreB is the larger of the two subunits (alpha and beta) and contains the active site where nickel ions reside to facilitate catalysis. Beyond its metabolic role, UreB is highly immunogenic and serves as a major surface antigen, making it a primary focus for diagnostic tests and vaccine development. In clinical practice, the activity of this target is exploited by the Urea Breath Test to diagnose active infections. Therapeutic strategies targeting UreB include the use of urease inhibitors like bismuth compounds and experimental small molecules designed to block the active site. Inhibiting this target prevents bacterial colonization and reduces the inflammatory response associated with gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer.

Other names

Urease subunit BUrea amidohydrolase subunit betaUreB proteinPhosphono-N-acetylmuramoyl-pentapeptide-transferase

Competitive inhibition of the urease active site, non-competitive inhibition via nickel ion chelation, and antigenic stimulation for vaccine-induced immune responses.