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Background and Objectives: Helicobacters are gastric and enterohepatic and live in the gut. The role of enterohepatic Helicobacters as intestinal pathogens is uncertain, while stomach Helicobacters are well-known. The prevalence of Helicobacter species in cat feces helps us understand their impact on cat health and human disease transmission. This study used PCR to identify Helicobacter spp. in feces samples from healthy and diarrhoeic cats, independent of the reason. The study also compared intestinal and stomach Helicobacter species. Materials and Methods: PCR analysis was performed on fecal samples from 40 cats, with 20 cats having diarrhea and 20 cats showing no symptoms. The PCR analysis aimed to detect Helicobacter's presence using a method that identifies the bacteria through the 16S rRNA gene. Results: The diarrhoeic group had a greater prevalence of infection (17:9 ratio), with an overall 65% infection rate detected. Cats that were older than 2 years showed a higher incidence of disease. H. canis had the highest occurrence rate (69.2%), followed by H. bilis, H. bizzozeronii, and H. salomonis. Significantly, H. pylori, H. felis, and H. heilmannii were not reported. Conclusion: H. canis was the predominant species found in both healthy and diarrheic cats, indicating the need for more investigation. The detection of the gastric species H. salomonis and H. bizzozeronii further complicates the classification. This highlights the complex nature of Helicobacter infections in cats, emphasizing the need for further investigation to guide the development of preventative measures and treatment techniques for both veterinary and public health purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colon and stool samples were collected from a total of 200 animals, 10 mice, 10 rats and 10 gerbils, from separate cages randomly selected between the ages of 15-22 weeks from each of the 11 licensed experimental animal facilities.From the DNA obtained, Helicobacter spp. 16S ribosomal RNA gene was determined by PCR method, and positive samples were determined by Multiplex PCR.The prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in mice was 90.91%.According to the species-based PCR results of the positive samples, the most common species was H. rodentium with a prevalence of 90.91%. In the study in which H. bilis and H. muridarum species were not detected in any facility, it was determined that H. typhlonius was the second most common species with a prevalence rate of 72.73%, followed by H. hepaticus with a prevalence of 27.27%. The prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in rats was 87.5%. According to the PCR results of the positive samples, the most common species was H. rodentium with a prevalence of 87.5%.In the study where H. bilis, H. hepaticus and H. muridarum species were not detected in any facility, H. typhlonius was the second common species with a prevalence of 12.5% in rats. On the other hand, only H. rodentium and H. typhlonius were detected in the colon samples taken from a single facility containing gerbils. It was determined that Helicobacter spp., which causes infections in experimental animals, especially subclinical, is quite common in the study area. It is recommended that the Experimental Animal facilities moniterize for this agent.

A total of 200 samples of chicken products collected randomly from Quesna and El-Bagour in Menoufia governorate. The collected samples were represented by chicken breast, thigh, gizzard and liver (50 of each) and subjected to bacteriological examination for detection of Helicobacter species particularly, Helicobacter pylori. Further, the effect of L. rhamnosus culture to control such serious pathogen contaminating chicken products was studied. Helicobacter spp., detected in 4%, 6%, 12% and 20% of breast, thigh, gizzard and liver, respectively and H. pylori represent 4%, 4% 6% and 10% from this examined samples, respectively. H. pylori inoculated chicken fillet (1×106/g) which are not treated with Lactobacillus rhamnosus (control +ve) showed increase in prevalence of H. pylori 1.0×106, 1.3×106, 1.9×106 and 2.4×106 at zero time, 1st day, 2nd day and 3rd day, respectively. While chicken fillets treated with L. rhamnosus (1x106/g) Effect on prevalence of H. pylori inoculated into chicken fillets with a reduction percent of 35%, 52% and 69% but L. rhamnosus (1x107/g) showed remarkable reduction of H. pylori prevalence with a reduction percent of 54%, 67% and 81% at 1st day, 2nd day and 3rd day, respectively. L. rhamnosus effected on virulence genes of H. pylori isolated from treated chicken fillet as L. rhamnosus (1x106/g) destructed cagA gene and L. rhamnosus (1x107/g) destructed cagA and vacA genes so using of Lactobacillus rhamnosus culture as a method of control has a good effect on prevalence of H. pylori and its virulence genes in chicken fillets and L. rhamnosus (1x107/g) more effective than L. rhamnosus (1x106/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background and Objectives: Helicobacters are gastric and enterohepatic and live in the gut. The role of enterohepatic Helicobacters as intestinal pathogens is uncertain, while stomach Helicobacters are well-known. The prevalence of Helicobacter species in cat feces helps us understand their impact on cat health and human disease transmission. This study used PCR to identify Helicobacter spp. in feces samples from healthy and diarrhoeic cats, independent of the reason. The study also compared intestinal and stomach Helicobacter species. Materials and Methods: PCR analysis was performed on fecal samples from 40 cats, with 20 cats having diarrhea and 20 cats showing no symptoms. The PCR analysis aimed to detect Helicobacter's presence using a method that identifies the bacteria through the 16S rRNA gene. Results: The diarrhoeic group had a greater prevalence of infection (17:9 ratio), with an overall 65% infection rate detected. Cats that were older than 2 years showed a higher incidence of disease. H. canis had the highest occurrence rate (69.2%), followed by H. bilis, H. bizzozeronii, and H. salomonis. Significantly, H. pylori, H. felis, and H. heilmannii were not reported. Conclusion: H. canis was the predominant species found in both healthy and diarrheic cats, indicating the need for more investigation. The detection of the gastric species H. salomonis and H. bizzozeronii further complicates the classification. This highlights the complex nature of Helicobacter infections in cats, emphasizing the need for further investigation to guide the development of preventative measures and treatment techniques for both veterinary and public health purposes.

As neoplasias gástricas são menos prevalentes em cães e gatos e se manifestam como perda de apetite, perda de peso, vômitos (com ou sem sangue), poliúria, polidipsia e fezes com sangue, levando à anemia. Helicobacter spp. é uma bactéria Gram-negativa, em forma de espiral, flagelada, que infecta a mucosa gástrica de humanos e animais como cães e gatos. Helicobacter spp é a causa de diversas doenças de gravidade variável. Estudos demonstraram a relação dessa bactéria com gastrite humana, úlceras gástricas e duodenais e tumores gástricos. Apesar de ocorrer em humanos, a relação entre esses tumores e cães é considerada inconclusiva, principalmente, pela falta de pesquisas. O presente relato descreve a avaliação clínica de um paciente diagnosticado com sarcoma indiferenciado por provável infiltrado de Helicobacter spp na região antro pilórica, sendo considerada uma forma rara de apresentação em cães. Destaca-se que a complexidade diagnóstica desses casos esteja relacionada à inespecificidade dos sinais clínicos e da necessidade de biopsia para comprovação diagnóstica.

Health monitoring is essential for ensuring animal health and reliable research results. Each animal facility should establish adequate health monitoring methods, and microbiological quality control should be implemented through regular health surveillance. Recently, specific pathogen free (SPF) mice have been housed in individually ventilated cage (IVC) racks in the majority of mouse facilities globally, and health monitoring is implemented using a soiled bedding sentinel (SBS). Even though SBS monitoring is a standard method, it has a limitation in that some pathogens are not sufficiently transmitted to the sentinel housed in the IVC. The exhaust air dust polymerase chain reaction (EAD PCR) method has been reported to be a reliable complementary method to SBS monitoring based on research findings. In Korea, health monitoring programs using EAD PCR have not yet been applied to laboratory animal facilities. The microbiological status of mouse colonies housed in the two IVC racks was compared using SBS and EAD PCR monitoring in our SPF mouse facility. Except for Helicobacter spp. and Staphylococcus aureus, the detection of 16 pathogens did not differ between the two methods. In the detection of Helicobacter spp., EAD PCR was found to be more sensitive than SBS. Helicobacter spp. were not found by SBS, whereas four S. aureus positive samples were detected by either SBS or EAD PCR test. According to our findings, EAD PCR can be used as a supplement to SBS monitoring. Moreover, EAD PCR can reduce the number of animals used, making it a 3R (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement)-consistent method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is probable that humans can acquire H. pylori and nonH. pylori Helicobacter infections via domestic animals. The prevalence and risk factors of infections of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city were therefore analysed in this study. Materials and methods: A total of 95 canine faecal samples were collected from different animal shelters and hospitals in Taipei city. Total DNA was extracted for semi-nested PCR detection of Helicobacter species. The PCR products were sequenced for further comparative database and phylogenetic analyses. Results: The overall prevalence of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city was 75.79% (72/95). Two gastric, seven enterohepatic and two unclassified Helicobacter species were identified, all of which have been implicated in the aetiology of human diseases. The predominant species detected included H. canis (27.78%), H. pylori (26.39%), H. canicola (18.06%), and H. bilis (13.89%) in decreasing order, while H. canadensis and H. typhlonius were identified for the first time in canines. The genotypes in H. pylori and H. canicola clusters grouped together, with their respective reference strains, showed a close evolutionary distance in the phylogenetic tree, indicating a common ancestry may have existed in these clusters respectively. The residential region of canines, dog living status (pet or stray) and breed (purebred or mixed-breed) are the risk factors associated with Helicobacter infections in the canines examined. Conclusion: The high prevalence of Helicobacter infections in canines highlights a potential public health risk of zoonotic transmission among dogs, humans and other animals, and therefore, the need for proper methods in controlling the transmission routes. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene amplification method was found to be useful for bacterial identification and phylogenetic analysis.

Simple Summary: The cheetah (genus Acinonyx), which is considered vulnerable by the IUCN Red List, suffers quite frequently from chronic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, often associated with Helicobacter spp., with a significant mortality, especially in captive animals. The study of the fecal proteome aims to investigate possible new markers of disease that could be useful in diagnosing and/or monitoring, when performed in feces, gastrointestinal disorders. Considering the invasiveness of some diagnostic investigations (e.g., GI endoscopy) in general and the difficulties of carrying out even simple blood sampling in animals such as the cheetah, the possibility of deriving clinical-diagnostic information from fecal samples is extremely interesting. Herein, a fecal proteomic evaluation from healthy and diseased cheetahs suffering from GI disorders is performed. Fecal proteomics allows for the identification of proteins and peptides present in stools and is useful in finding possible new biomarkers for diagnosing and/or monitoring gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In the present study, we investigated the fecal proteome in healthy and diseased cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Captive individuals of this species frequently show gastrointestinal disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of diarrhea, rare episodes of vomiting and weight loss, associated with Helicobacter spp. infection. Fecal proteomic evaluation has been performed by two-dimensional electrophoresis followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In healthy cheetahs, the results showed the presence of the following proteins: collagen alpha-1 (II) chain, transthyretin, IgG Fc-binding protein, titin, dystonin, isopentenyl-diphosphate Delta-isomerase 1, sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase subunit alpha-1 and protein disulfide-isomerase A6. The presence of albumin isoforms was found only in diseased cheetahs. The present paper reports the study of the fecal proteome in the cheetah, evidences some differences between healthy and diseased patients and confirms, once again, the potential of fecal proteomics for the study of the GI environment, with promising developments regarding the identification of new diagnostic/monitoring markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Ménétrier-like disease is a rare hypertrophic canine gastropathy, reported in only seven dogs. Clinical signs are vomiting, anorexia and weight loss. Macroscopically, giant cerebriform gastric mucosal folds are typically seen in the corpus and fundus of the stomach. Histopathologically, fundic mucous cell hyperplasia and loss of parietal and chief cells are typical. Case presentation A nine-year-old spayed female Pointer had a history of intermittent vomiting, marked weight loss and hypoalbuminaemia. A gastroduodenoscopy was performed three times within three months with macroscopic changes remaining the same. The gastric mucosa of the corpus, fundus and proximal antrum was markedly irregular, with cerebriform mucosal folds. In the first gastric biopsies, histopathology revealed a moderate granulomatous gastritis, with a severe manifestation of Helicobacter-like organisms. Treatment for Helicobacter spp. decreased the vomiting slightly. The dog was diagnosed with concurrent leishmaniosis; the conventional anti-Leishmania treatment decreased the vomiting moderately, the hypoalbuminaemia resolved and the dog gained weight back to a normal body condition. Granulomatous gastritis was not present in the gastric biopsies after these treatments. The dog increased vomiting when palliative treatment (maropitant citrate, ondansetron and esomeprazole) was discontinued, and thus, full-thickness biopsies of the stomach were taken and Ménétrier-like disease was diagnosed. The affected area was too large to be surgically removed; thus, palliative treatment was reinstated. The dog remained clinically well 39 months after the first clinical presentation. Conclusions This is the first report of Ménétrier-like disease in a dog with a simultaneous manifestation of granulomatous gastritis, helicobacteriosis and leishmaniosis. The clinical signs decreased after treatment of helicobacteriosis and leishmaniosis, but vomiting remained probably as a sign of Ménétrier-like disease. Treatment options for dogs are surgical removal of the abnormal area or palliative treatment. In humans, promising results for a cure have been shown with cetuximab treatment, a human monoclonal antibody, but no canine antibody is commercially available yet. The dog here was doing well 39 months after first presentation, which is the longest reported survival time for Ménétrier-like disease with only palliative treatment in dogs. Full-thickness biopsies are preferred in macroscopic hypertrophic lesions of the stomach for better assessment of Ménétrier-like disease.

Fecal proteomics allows for the identification of proteins and peptides present in stools and is useful in finding possible new biomarkers for diagnosing and/or monitoring gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In the present study, we investigated the fecal proteome in healthy and diseased cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Captive individuals of this species frequently show gastrointestinal disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of diarrhea, rare episodes of vomiting and weight loss, associated with Helicobacter spp. infection. Fecal proteomic evaluation has been performed by two-dimensional electrophoresis followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In healthy cheetahs, the results showed the presence of the following proteins: collagen alpha-1 (II) chain, transthyretin, IgG Fc-binding protein, titin, dystonin, isopentenyl-diphosphate Delta-isomerase 1, sodium/potassium-transporting ATPase subunit alpha-1 and protein disulfide-isomerase A6. The presence of albumin isoforms was found only in diseased cheetahs. The present paper reports the study of the fecal proteome in the cheetah, evidences some differences between healthy and diseased patients and confirms, once again, the potential of fecal proteomics for the study of the GI environment, with promising developments regarding the identification of new diagnostic/monitoring markers.

Background: Ménétrier-like disease is a rare hypertrophic canine gastropathy, reported in only seven dogs. Clinical signs are vomiting, anorexia and weight loss. Macroscopically, giant cerebriform gastric mucosal folds are typically seen in the corpus and fundus of the stomach. Histopathologically, fundic mucous cell hyperplasia and loss of parietal and chief cells are typical. Case presentation: A nine-year-old spayed female Pointer had a history of intermittent vomiting, marked weight loss and hypoalbuminaemia. A gastroduodenoscopy was performed three times within three months with macroscopic changes remaining the same. The gastric mucosa of the corpus, fundus and proximal antrum was markedly irregular, with cerebriform mucosal folds. In the first gastric biopsies, histopathology revealed a moderate granulomatous gastritis, with a severe manifestation of Helicobacter-like organisms. Treatment for Helicobacter spp. decreased the vomiting slightly. The dog was diagnosed with concurrent leishmaniosis; the conventional anti-Leishmania treatment decreased the vomiting moderately, the hypoalbuminaemia resolved and the dog gained weight back to a normal body condition. Granulomatous gastritis was not present in the gastric biopsies after these treatments. The dog increased vomiting when palliative treatment (maropitant citrate, ondansetron and esomeprazole) was discontinued, and thus, full-thickness biopsies of the stomach were taken and Ménétrier-like disease was diagnosed. The affected area was too large to be surgically removed; thus, palliative treatment was reinstated. The dog remained clinically well 39 months after the first clinical presentation. Conclusions: This is the first report of Ménétrier-like disease in a dog with a simultaneous manifestation of granulomatous gastritis, helicobacteriosis and leishmaniosis. The clinical signs decreased after treatment of helicobacteriosis and leishmaniosis, but vomiting remained probably as a sign of Ménétrier-like disease. Treatment options for dogs are surgical removal of the abnormal area or palliative treatment. In humans, promising results for a cure have been shown with cetuximab treatment, a human monoclonal antibody, but no canine antibody is commercially available yet. The dog here was doing well 39 months after first presentation, which is the longest reported survival time for Ménétrier-like disease with only palliative treatment in dogs. Full-thickness biopsies are preferred in macroscopic hypertrophic lesions of the stomach for better assessment of Ménétrier-like disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) are classified as “vulnerable” species due to the low numbers persisting in the wild. Gastrointestinal diseases are very common in this species when they are kept in captivity, in particular gastritis. Clinical signs are predominantly characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and anorexia. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of a multi-strain probiotic in two groups of cheetahs: Group A (n = 4)—rescued cheetahs housed at the Cheetah Conservation Fund (Otjiwarongo, Namibia); Group B (n = 9)—captive cheetahs housed in Italian zoos. Animals showed gastrointestinal signs of different severity, and were positive for Helicobacter spp., detected by PCR in stool samples. Two sachets of probiotic formulation were administered to all cheetahs once a day for 21 consecutive days. Clinical conditions (appetite loss, vomiting, stool consistency and Body Condition Score) before (T0) and after 21 days of probiotic administration (T1) were then compared using a simplified Feline Chronic Enteropathy Activity Index (FCEAI) score. A slight but not significant improvement in the scores was observed in Group A, which had mild intestinal symptoms, while a significant decrease in vomiting and stool consistency (**p < 0.01) scores was observed in Group B, which had more pronounced symptoms. Results suggest that high concentrations of live probiotics can be of help in managing gastrointestinal signs in cheetahs.

The genus Helicobacter contains more than 35 species. Helicobacter pylori is the most important in terms of human health. Discovery of these helicobacters gives opportunity to understand the relationship between these bacteria which colonise the animal and human gut and their effect on the host. Infection with Helicobacter spp. and the associated diseases in their hosts allow us to study the pathogenic mechanisms. The potential zoonotic pathway for the transmission of Helicobacter spp. and epidemiology of this genus, deserve more attention to these emerging pathogens.

Canine gastric carcinoma (CGC) affects both sexes in relatively equal proportions, with a mean age of nine years, and the highest frequency in Staffordshire bull terriers. The most common histological subtype in 149 CGC cases was the undifferentiated carcinoma. CGCs were associated with increased chronic inflammation parameters and a greater chronic inflammatory score when Helicobacter spp. were present. Understanding the molecular pathways of gastric carcinoma is challenging. All markers showed variable expression for each subtype. Expression of the cell cycle regulator 14-3-3σ was positive in undifferentiated, tubular and papillary carcinomas. This demonstrates that 14-3-3σ could serve as an immunohistochemical marker in routine diagnosis and that mucinous, papillary and signet-ring cell (SRC) carcinomas follow a 14-3-3σ independent pathway. p16, another cell cycle regulator, showed increased expression in mucinous and SRC carcinomas. Expression of the adhesion molecules E-cadherin and CD44 appear context-dependent, with switching within tumor emboli potentially playing an important role in tumor cell survival, during invasion and metastasis. Within neoplastic emboli, acinar structures lacked expression of all markers, suggesting an independent molecular pathway that requires further investigation. These findings demonstrate similarities and differences between dogs and humans, albeit further clinicopathological data and molecular analysis are required.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects half of the human population worldwide, causing gastric disorders, such as chronic gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcers, and gastric malignancies. Helicobacter suis (H. suis) is mainly associated with pigs, but can also colonize the stomach of humans, resulting in gastric pathologies. In pigs, H. suis can induce gastritis and seems to play a role in gastric ulcer disease, seriously affecting animal production and welfare. Since close interactions between domestic animals, wildlife, and humans can increase bacterial transmission risk between species, samples of gastric tissue of 14 free range wild boars (Sus scrofa) were evaluated for the presence of H. pylori and H. suis using PCR. Samples from the antral gastric mucosa from two animals were PCR-positive for H. pylori and another one for H. suis. These findings indicate that these microorganisms were able to colonize the stomach of wild boars and raise awareness for their putative intervention in Helicobacter spp. transmission cycle.

O diagnóstico da úlcera gastroesofágica (UGE) é fundamental para que se tente a recuperação dos afetados, entretanto há grande dificuldade na sua realização de forma precisa. Modernos endoscópios são ferramentas importantes nesse sentido e podem ser usados para determinar em que fase da criação a ulceração ocorre. A bactéria Helicobacter tem sido associada à UGE e gerado perdas econômicas. Tendo em vista que poucos trabalhos têm sido realizados para identificação do problema precocemente, este estudo teve como objetivo detectar as lesões relacionando-as, ou não, com a bactéria Helicobacter spp., mediante análises macroscópica e histopatológica de amostras colhidas por meio da gastroscopia. Foram utilizados 20 animais de ambos os sexos, pesando entre 22 e 26kg e com 65 dias de idade. O aparelho utilizado foi um gastrovideoscópio da marca Karl Storz, modelo 1380NKS. Foram colhidas amostras das regiões anatômicas aglandular (quadrilátero esofágico) e glandular (cárdica, fúndica e pilórica) para o teste ultrarrápido da urease e para as avaliações histopatológicas e imuno-histoquímicas. Onze animais apresentaram lesões na região aglandular à endoscopia, e microscopicamente 15 animais apresentaram paraqueratose. Em 18 animais, foram observadas alterações em pelo menos uma das três regiões glandulares. As lesões foram maiores na região cárdica, seguida da antral e da fúndica. Em relação ao teste ultrarrápido da urease, sete animais foram negativos nas quatro regiões, e 13 positivos em pelo menos uma delas. Em relação à imuno-histoquímica (IHQ), 10 animais foram negativos em todas as regiões e 10 foram positivos em pelo menos uma delas. Os achados pré-ulcerativos não demonstraram relação com o Helicobacter spp., que apresenta caráter saprofítico e oportunista confirmado pela sua imunomarcação em áreas sem lesão.

Innate, inflammatory responses towards persistent Opisthorchis viverrini (OV) infection are likely to contribute to the development of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), a liver cancer that is rare in the West but prevalent in Greater Mekong Subregion countries in Southeast Asia. Infection results in the infiltration of innate immune cells into the bile ducts and subsequent activation of inflammatory immune responses that fail to clear OV but instead may damage local tissues within the bile ducts. Not all patients infected with OV develop CCA, and so tumourigenesis may be dependent on multiple factors including the magnitude of the inflammatory response that is activated in infected individuals. The purpose of this review is to summarize how innate immune responses may promote tumourigenesis following OV infection and if such responses can be used to predict CCA onset in OV-infected individuals. It also hypothesizes on the role that Helicobacterspp., which are associated with liver fluke infections, may play in activation of the innate the immune system to promote tissue damage and persistent inflammation leading to CCA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of gastric Helicobacter-like organisms and the endoscopic and histopathological changes in domestic cats with blood type A. Samples from the stomach antrum, body and fundus were collected from 32 mixed-breed stray domestic cats using gastroscopy. Urease testing and cytological analysis were performed in fresh samples. Tissue sections were processed and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and the Warthin-Starry (WS) silver staining methods for histopathological examination. Helicobacter spp. were detected in 100% of samples subjected to silver staining and cytological analysis, and in 96.9% of samples subjected to urease testing. In 87.5% of the cats, mononuclear inflammatory-cell infiltrates were identified. The graduation and distribution of inflammatory infiltrates in these cats revealed mild (78.1%) to moderate (9.4%) inflammatory changes in at least one gastric region. These changes were independent of the colonization score. Hyperplasia of the lymphoid follicles was detected in three cats. Cats of blood group A are often colonized by Helicobacter spp. and the macroscopic and microscopic findings are consistent with studies in domestic cats reported to date, concluding that the most common blood group in cats is not associated with high susceptibility to symptomatic gastritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection with the fish-borne liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a Group 1 carcinogen: definitely carcinogenic in humans. Cofactors likely contribute to bile duct cancer (cholangiocarcinoma) caused by this infection. Here we review recent findings that address the role of liver fluke associated H . pylori in hepatobiliary disease and malignancy. We hypothesize that co-infection by O . viverrini and the bacillus Helicobacter pylori is central of liver fluke infection associated cholangiocarcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a triple anti-Helicobacter therapy using omeprazole, amoxicillin and clarithromycin (OAC) in dogs. A total of 15 healthy adult stray dogs with naturally acquired Helicobacter infection were evaluated using polymerase chain reaction and rapid urease test. Subsequently, they received a 21-day triple regimen. One day after the discontinuation of treatment, a second molecular analysis of gastric biopsies revealed complete eradication of Helicobacter DNA with negative quantitative urease testing in all 15 dogs. Our results confirmed the high prevalence of gastric Helicobacter-like organisms (GHLOs) in the stray dog population of Shiraz, Iran, and the effectiveness of our therapeutic regimen for the complete eradication of these microorganisms in stray dogs. In conclusion, for the complete elimination of non-pylori Helicobacter spp. from the gastric mucosa of dogs, a 21-day three-drug regimen with omeprazole, amoxicillin and clarithromycin is suggested.

Helicobacter pylori infection causes gastritis and can induce gastric adenocarcinoma and MALT lymphoma in humans. The aim of this study was to determine in dogs whether there is an association between Helicobacter spp. infection in gastric mucosa, histological lesions, including epithelial cell proliferation and cell adhesion. Gastric biopsies of 12 dogs with gastric disturbances and 25 healthy dogs were evaluated. Warthin-Starry staining (WS) and PCR assay were performed to confirm the presence of helicobacteria. The Helicobacter species were determined by PCR assay with speciesspecific primers for H. heilmannii, H. bizzozeronii or H. salomonis, H. felis and H. pylori. Mucosal lesions were evaluated by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) and epithelial proliferation was determined by AgNOR and PCNA methods. Cell adhesion was evaluated by the expression of E-cadherin by epithelial cells. Helicobacter spp. was confirmed in 75.7% (28/37) and 73.0% (27/37) of the samples by WS and PCR, respectively. H. bizzozeronii was the species most frequently detected (37%); co-infection was observed in six (22%) dogs. Histological changes in the lamina propria included mild chronic gastritis, fibrosis, glandular degeneration, and presence of lymphoid aggregates. There was a significant association between H. heilmannii infection and the presence of lymphoid follicles (p < 0.046). In this study no significant change in epithelial proliferation or E-cadherin expression were detected in the gastric mucosa of dogs infected with Helicobacter spp.Infecção por Helicobacter pylori provoca gastrite e pode induzir adenocarcinoma gástrico e linfoma tipo MALT em seres humanos. O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar se existe associação entre infecção por Helicobacter spp. na mucosa gástrica de cães e lesões histológicas, incluindo proliferação epitelial e adesão celular. Foram avaliadas biópsias de 12 cães com distúrbios gástricos e de 25 cães saudáveis. A coloração de Warthin-Starry (WS) e o método de PCR foram utilizados para confirmar a presença de helicobactérias. As espécies de Helicobacter foram determinadas por PCR com primers espécie-específicos para H. heilmannii, H. bizzozeronii ou H. salomonis, H. felis e H. pylori. As lesões da mucosa foram avaliadas por hematoxilina e eosina (HE) e a proliferação epitelial foi determinada pelos métodos AgNOR e PCNA. A adesão celular foi avaliada por meio da expressão de E-caderina nas células epiteliais. Helicobacter spp. foi confirmado em 75,7% (28/37) e 73,0% (27/37) das amostras por WS e PCR, respectivamente. H. bizzozeronii foi a espécie mais frequentemente detectada (37%); e coinfecção foi observada em seis (22%) cães. As alterações histológicas na lâmina própria foram gastrite crônica discreta, fibrose, degeneração glandular e presença de agregados linfóides. Houve associação significativa entre a infecção por H. heilmannii e a presença de folículos linfóides (p

The prevalence of Helicobacter Species in hens' eggs sold in Assiut and Qena cities, Egypt was determined. A total of 300 hens' eggs were collected from poultry farms and farmers, houses from both cities in which every 5 eggs were represented as one egg pooled sample. Each of egg shell and content was subjected to procedures of isolation of Helicobacter Species followed by PCR assay for the 16S rRNA gene for identification. The obtained results revealed that H. pylori recorded as the highest percentage of contamination (23.33%) followed by H. pullorum (20%). Contamination of egg shells (18.3%) and contents (11.6%) in farmer's houses was higher than poultry farm ones, concluding that egg shell was more subjected to contamination with Helicobacter Species than egg content. All H. pylori and H. pullorum isolates were confirmed by PCR by detection of one PCR product on agarose gel at 109 bp in case of H. pylori and at 477 bp in case of H. pullorum that corresponding to 16S rRNA region of the gene, confirming the specificity of PCR assay for identification of both strains. Regarding the in vitro susceptibility testing, it was found that both strains were sensitive to almost antibiotic used except for ceftriaxone and Sulphamethoxazole +Trimethoprim. [Veterinary World 2010; 3(9.000): 403-407]

Objetivo. Determinar la presencia de Helicobacter spp., en úlceras gástricas en caballos. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron 40 caballos, 28 machos y 12 hembras, (4-17, años). Se analizó en forma descriptiva la frecuencia de presentación de bacterias tipo Helicobacter spp., mediante las pruebas de ureasa (TU), tinción de Gram directo (GD) y tinción de Whartin Starry (WS), las bacterias se identificaron por su morfología y por su actividad sobre urea. Se consideraron las variables del total de animales, zona anatómica, sexo y edad. Resultados. Se encontraron bacterias tipo Helicobacter spp. El 65% de los caballos fueron positivos al test de ureasa, el 75% fueron positivos a la tinción de Whartin Starry y el 50% resultaron positivos a la tinción de Gram directo. Sólo el 62.5 % de animales fueron positivos en 2 pruebas (TU y WS), mientras que el 50% fueron positivos en 3 pruebas (TU, WS y GD). El 22.5% de los animales resultaron negativos a todas las pruebas. El 100% de las muestras positivas correspondieron a la mucosa glandular, principalmente a nivel del fundus y pocas del antro gástrico. Las bacterias fueron encontradas en todos los grupos etáreos y en ambos sexos, se observó mayor positividad en los machos a dos pruebas o más. Microscópicamente se demostró la presencia de bacterias curvo-espiraladas compatibles con Helicobacter spp., el test de ureasa fue moderado, un escaso número de muestras positivas mostró una alta cantidad de bacterias con la tinción de Whartin Starry. Conclusiones. Se hallaron bacterias con morfología compatible con Helicobacter spp., presentes en las úlceras gástricas de caballos.

A relação entre Helicobacter spp. e a presença de alterações histológicas na pars esophagea de suínos foi avaliada em 67 estômagos de animais em idade de abate. Para a identificação das helicobactérias, utilizou-se a técnica da PCR com primers específicos para o gênero Helicobacter. As alterações histológicas foram identificadas e classificadas como ulceração, erosão, degeneração epitelial, alongamento de papilas, hiperplasia, paraqueratose, intensidade do infiltrado inflamatório e aumento do número de folículos linfoides. As alterações mais frequentemente encontradas na pars esophagea foram a degeneração epitelial e o alongamento de papilas, observadas em 83,5% (n=56) das amostras analisadas. Em 77,5% (n=52) das amostras, observou-se paraqueratose e em 61,1% (n=41) hiperplasia epitelial. Quarenta e sete (70,1%) foram positivas na PCR para Helicobacter spp. Nessas amostras a erosão foi a lesão mais observada (40,2%), seguida de ulceração da mucosa (11,9%). Em 58,2% das amostras positivas na PCR, não foram observadas ulcerações de mucosa. Observou-se associação significativa (P=0,003) entre a presença de Helicobacter spp. e a degeneração epitelial da pars esophagea de suínos em idade de abate.The association between histological findings of gastric mucosa in pigs at slaughtering age and the presence of Helicobacter spp., identified by PCR, assay was investigated. Stomachs from 67 pigs were examined. Histological changes of pars esophagea were identified and classified as gastric ulcers, erosion, degeneration, distortion of papils, hyperplasia, paraqueratosis, and number of lymphoid follicles. Microscopic analysis revealed the most frequent alteration: 83.5% (n= 56) stomachs with epithelial degeneration and distortion of papils. Paraqueratosis of pars esophagea was observed in 77.5% (n=52) of the samples and epithelial hyperplasia in 61% (n=41). Forty-seven (70.1%) pigs were positive to Helycobacter spp. by PCR. Erosion of pars esophagea and ulceration were the most frequent findings in Helicobacter spp. PCR-positive pigs, occurring, respectively, in 40.2% and 11.9%. The frequency of animals without ulceration and Helicobacter spp. PCR-positive was 58.2%. It was observed a significant association (P=0.003) between Helicobacter spp. and epithelial degeneration of gastric mucosa in pigs at slaughtering age.

Avaliaram-se a eficácia do óleo de alho e da terapia tripla (amoxicilina, metronidazol e omeprazol) no tratamento de 21 cães infectados por Helicobacter spp., que apresentavam alterações histológicas nas biopsias endoscópicas da mucosa gástrica e reação positiva ao teste de urease. Os animais foram distribuídos, aleatoriamente, em três grupos de sete cães, os quais receberam os seguintes tratamentos: grupo 1 - cápsulas vazias; grupo 2 - 500mg de óleo de alho em cápsulas, diariamente, por um período de 30 dias; grupo 3 - amoxicilina, metronidazol e omeprazol, respectivamente, nas doses de 20mg/kg a cada 12 horas, 25mg/kg e 20mg/kg a cada 24 horas, durante 15 dias. Ao final dos tratamentos, os cães foram submetidos à endoscopia com realização de biopsias da mucosa gástrica. O tratamento com amoxicilina, metronidazol e omeprazol resultou em erradicação de Helicobacter spp. tanto na região fúndica quanto na pilórica. No grupo 2, houve redução da degeneração glandular na região fúndica em dois animais e em outros dois na pilórica. O tratamento com óleo de alho não foi eficaz em erradicar Helicobacter spp., apenas reduziu a sua colonização em quatro dos animais tratados.The efficacy of garlic oil and triple therapy (amoxicillin, metronidazole, and omeprazol) were evaluated in the treatment of 21 dogs infected by Helicobacter spp., which presented histological alterations of the gastric mucosa according to endoscopic biopsies and positive reaction to urease test. The animals were randomly distributed into three groups of seven dogs each, and received the following treatment, group 1 - empty capsules; group 2 - 500mg of garlic oil capsules daily for a period of 30 days; and group 3 - amoxicillin, metronidazole, and omeprazol, in doses of 20mg/kg every 12 hours, 25mg/kg and 20mg/kg every 24 hours, respectively, for 15 days. By the end of the treatment, the dogs were subjected to new endoscopic procedure with gastric mucosa biopsies. Treatment with amoxicillin, metronidazole, and omeprazol resulted in eradication of Helicobacter spp. both in fundic and pyloric regions. The garlic oil treatment reduced glandular degeneration in the fundic region in two animals and in the pylorus region in two other animals, and it was inefficient in eradicating Helicobacter spp. in dogs as it only reduced the colonization in some of the treated animals.

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the lesions of the gastric mucosa in slaughter pigs and sex, carcass weight and presence of Helicobacter spp. Stomachs from 236 swine were examined. Gastroesophageal lesions were classified in agreement severity in grade 0, 1, 2 and 3. Fragments from the aglandular and glandular area were processed for histology and for dentification of Helicobacter spp in tissue sections. Macroscopic analysis revealed 203 (86.1%) stomachs with some degree of lesion. Grade 2 and 3 lesions were observed in 104 (44.1%) animals. Grade 3 lesions were observed in 25 (21.1%) castrated males and 20 (16.5%) females. The average carcass weight of animals with grade 0 and 1 lesions and grade 2 and 3 was 82,5 Kg and 79,5 Kg, respectively. One hundred and twelve (47.5%) pigs were positive for Helicobacter spp. by Warthin-Starry stain method ; among them, 54 (48.2%) had grade 2 and 3 lesions; and 58 (51.8%) had grade 0 and 1 lesions. One hundred and twentyfour (52.5%) were negative for Helicobacter spp; among them 50 (40.3%) had grade 2 and 3 lesions, and 74 (59.7%) had grade 0 and 1. There was no significant difference between pigs with and without gastric lesions in regard to the presence of Helicobacter spp, sex and weight.O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a ocorrência de lesões gástricas em suínos de abate e verificar a relação das lesões com o gênero, o peso da carcaça e a presença de Helicobacter spp na mucosa gástrica. Foram colhidos e examinados 236 estômagos de suínos. As lesões da pars esophagea e região glandular foram classificadas conforme a severidade em graus 0, 1, 2 e 3. Fragmentos das regiões aglandular e glandular foram processados para exame histológico e para pesquisa de Helicobacter spp. A análise macroscópica revelou que 203 (86.1%) estômagos apresentavam algum tipo de lesão. A ocorrência de erosões e úlceras na região aglandular foi observada em 104 (44.1%) animais e na região glandular em 22 (9.3%). A ulceração na região gastroesofágica estava presente em 45 animais (19.1%), dos quais 25 (21.1%) eram machos e 20 (16.5%) fêmeas. O peso médio da carcaça foi de 82.7 Kg nos animais sem lesões e com paraqueratose na pars esophagea e de 79.5 Kg nos animais com erosões e ulcerações. Utilizando a coloração de Warthin-Starry, observamos Helicobacter spp na mucosa gástrica de 112 (47.5%) amostras. Destas, 54 (48.2%) foram classificadas como grau 2 ou 3 (pars esophagea) e 58 (51.8%) como grau 0 e 1. Dos animais positivos para o Helicobacter spp, 26 (23.2%) apresentavam úlceras na pars esophagea e 24 (21.4%) apresentavam a mucosa sem alterações. Dos 124 (52.5%) animais negativos, 50 (40.3%) foram classificados como grau 2 ou 3 e 74 (59.7%) como grau 0 ou 1. A análise estatística revelou que não há diferença significativa entre suínos com ou sem lesões gástricas em relação à presença de Helicobacter spp, gênero e peso da carcaça.

Helicobacter pylori is the most common gastric bacteria of human beings. Animal-borne helicobacter have been associated with gastritis, ulceration, and gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid-tissue lymphoma in people. We attempted to identify the species of Helicobacter spp. that infect human beings in north Paraná, Brazil. Samples of gastric mucosa from 38 dyspeptic patients were analyzed by optic microscopy on silver stained slides, polimerase chain reaction (PCR), and enzymatic cleavage. Genus and species-specific primers to H. pylori, H. heilmannii, H. felis, and consensual primers to H. bizzozeronii or H. salomonis were used. The PCR products were submitted to enzymatic cleavage by VspI (Helicobacter spp. product) and HinfI (species products) enzymes. Thirty-two out of 38 patients evaluated had 3.2 to 5 µm long bacteria that resembled H. pylori in Warthin-Starry stained slides and were positive to the genus Helicobacter by PCR. In 30 of these patients the bacteria were identified as H. pylori. Two samples positive by silver stain were negative to all species tested by PCR. None of the 38 samples was positive to animal-origin helicobacter species. These results show that PCR and enzymatic restriction are practical methods to identify the species of helicobacters present in gastric mucosa of human beings. People in north Paraná appear to be infected mostly with H. pylori.

La información sobre la presentación y los factores predisponentes del síndrome de úlcera gástrica en mulas (SUGM) es escasa en comparación con el síndrome de úlcera gástrica en equinos (SUGE) y asnales. Debido a la naturaleza multifactorial de este síndrome, la helicobacteriosis ha sido estudiada en otras especies. El objetivo de este trabajo fue establecer la presencia de Helicobacter spp. en mucosa gástrica de mulas a través de la prueba rápida de la ureasa (PRU) y de análisis histopatológico. Menos del 27% de las muestras reaccionaron a la PRU, con tiempos prolongados de reacción, y al Agar Urea (prueba de oro), con menor porcentaje de positividad. La histopatología reveló procesos inflamatorios crónicos, sin presencia de bacterias curvoespiraladas. Las PRU no fueron conclusivas en la determinación de Helicobacter spp., comportamiento similar reportado en equinos. Se requieren exámenes diagnósticos más específicos y procedimientos complementarios orientados a explorar por regiones del estómago en la consideración del número de muestras representativas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent years, many studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of probiotics in acute and chronic gastrointestinal disorders in both humans and animals. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of a specific probiotic mixture in cheetahs. In the wild, cheetah populations have drastically reduced due to habitat destruction, human–wildlife conflict and illegal wildlife trade. In captivity, chronic gastrointestinal diseases have a high prevalence. Based on our results, it can be concluded that probiotics may be helpful as a dietary supplement in cheetahs suffering from gastrointestinal disease. Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) are classified as "vulnerable" species due to the low numbers persisting in the wild. Gastrointestinal diseases are very common in this species when they are kept in captivity, in particular gastritis. Clinical signs are predominantly characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and anorexia. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of a multi-strain probiotic in two groups of cheetahs: Group A (n = 4)—rescued cheetahs housed at the Cheetah Conservation Fund (Otjiwarongo, Namibia); Group B (n = 9)—captive cheetahs housed in Italian zoos. Animals showed gastrointestinal signs of different severity, and were positive for Helicobacter spp., detected by PCR in stool samples. Two sachets of probiotic formulation were administered to all cheetahs once a day for 21 consecutive days. Clinical conditions (appetite loss, vomiting, stool consistency and Body Condition Score) before (T0) and after 21 days of probiotic administration (T1) were then compared using a simplified Feline Chronic Enteropathy Activity Index (FCEAI) score. A slight but not significant improvement in the scores was observed in Group A, which had mild intestinal symptoms, while a significant decrease in vomiting and stool consistency (**p < 0.01) scores was observed in Group B, which had more pronounced symptoms. Results suggest that high concentrations of live probiotics can be of help in managing gastrointestinal signs in cheetahs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Gastric disease is common in finishing pigs. Helicobacter spp. infection has been associated with gastritis, gastric ulcers and gastric neoplasia in man and animals. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Helicobacter spp. infection on gastric morphology in pigs, with emphasis on glandular cell proliferation and E-cadherin expression. Samples of fundus and antrum from 67 finishing pigs were examined microscopically and by immunohistochemistry. The presence of Helicobacter spp. was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Mucosal changes were evaluated and epithelial proliferation was determined by evaluation of the morphometry of nucleolar organizer regions and counting proliferating cell nuclear antigen-positive cells and mitotic figures. Intercellular adhesion was evaluated by E-cadherin expression. In 47 (70%) pigs, Helicobacter spp. infection was confirmed by PCR. Histological findings associated with the infection included mononuclear cell infiltration of the lamina propria and glandular degeneration. There was a significant association between infection and epithelial proliferation in both regions as well as a decrease in the expression of E-cadherin in the antrum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of Helicobacter 30 years ago by Marshall and Warren completely changed thought about peptic and duodenal ulcers. The previous paradigm posited the impossibility of the survival of microorganisms in the stomach's low pH environment and that, if any microorganisms survived, they would stay in the duodenum or elsewhere in the intestine. Today the role of H. pylori in carcinogenesis is indisputable, but little is known about other emerging species of the genus Helicobacter in humans. Helicobacter hepaticus is one of these species that has been studied most, after H. pylori. We now know about their microbiological, genetic and pathogenic relationships with HCC in murine and human infections. This review aims to show the medical and scientifi c community the existence of new species of Helicobacter that have pathogenic potential in humans, thus encouraging research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Pulmonary sarcoidosis, a human disease of unknown cause, has no animal model. Sarcoidosis patients have serum antibodies specific for Helicobacter pylori and its surface enzyme urease. H. pylori do not survive in the high-oxygen pulmonary atmosphere, but urease may access the lung by oesophageal reflux. A model was established in rats to study gastro-oesophageal reflux of urease into the airways. Pathology in tissues from human sarcoidosis patients was compared with that in the rat model. Changes observed in the rat model included prominent peribronchial lymphocytic infiltration, which is seen occasionally in human sarcoidosis. Granulomas, pathognomonic for human sarcoidosis, occurred occasionally in the lungs of rats given urease protein intratracheally, but were widespread when urease was coupled to microbeads and administered intravenously. Biomarkers associated with human sarcoidosis (interleukin1-β and platelet-activating factor) were up-regulated acutely in the rat model. Further investigations with this model may provide significant insights into the origin and pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases in man and other species that carry gastric Helicobacter spp. and its associated enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is probable that humans can acquire H. pylori and non- H. pylori Helicobacter infections via domestic animals. The prevalence and risk factors of infections of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city were therefore analysed in this study., Materials and Methods: A total of 95 canine faecal samples were collected from different animal shelters and hospitals in Taipei city. Total DNA was extracted for semi-nested PCR detection of Helicobacter species. The PCR products were sequenced for further comparative database and phylogenetic analyses., Results: The overall prevalence of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city was 75.79% (72/95). Two gastric, seven enterohepatic and two unclassified Helicobacter species were identified, all of which have been implicated in the aetiology of human diseases. The predominant species detected included H. canis (27.78%) , H. pylori (26.39%), H. canicola (18.06%) , and H. bilis (13.89%) in decreasing order , while H. canadensis and H. typhlonius were identified for the first time in canines. The genotypes in H. pylori and H. canicola clusters grouped together, with their respective reference strains, showed a close evolutionary distance in the phylogenetic tree, indicating a common ancestry may have existed in these clusters respectively. The residential region of canines, dog living status (pet or stray) and breed (purebred or mixed-breed) are the risk factors associated with Helicobacter infections in the canines examined., Conclusion: The high prevalence of Helicobacter infections in canines highlights a potential public health risk of zoonotic transmission among dogs, humans and other animals, and therefore, the need for proper methods in controlling the transmission routes. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene amplification method was found to be useful for bacterial identification and phylogenetic analysis., (© 2022 The Authors.)

Abstract: In this study, we have successfully used molecular methods based on the amplification of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene on feline bile samples to show that bile of cats with LC is not sterile. This is probably due to the fact that the inflammatory process in the biliary tree causes dilatations. As a result, bacteria can easily migrate from the intestines via the common bile duct. The diversity of species identified and the presence of Helicobacter spp. DNA in both patients and controls suggests that bacteriobilia is secondary to the disease and is not the cause of LC. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Neoplasia of the gastrointestinal system is uncommon in cats, whereas gastric tumors are exceedingly rare. This article describes the occurrence of gastric leiomyoma in a 3-year-old feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-positive cat. The tumor was accidentally diagnosed in a retrospective postmortem histopathological study in feline immunodeficiency virus- and FeLV-infected euthanized cats. At necropsy, a firm, muscular mass measuring 1.5 × 2.5 cm arising from the cardia extending to the fundus part of the stomach was seen. In histopathological examination, the nonencapsulated tumor mass consisted of spindle cells with large nuclei. No abnormal mitotic division, metastasis, or local invasion was seen resembling the diagnosis of leiomyoma. Helicobacter spp. infection was noted in cytological examination, and mixed infection with Helicobacter heilmannii and Helicobacter felis was confirmed in species-specific polymerase change reaction. To our knowledge, gastric leiomyoma has not been reported previously in cats. The association of Helicobacter spp. and FeLV infection with tumor occurrence is uncertain, but chronic antigenic stimulations could be considered as potential predisposing factors for gastric tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the presence of Helicobacter in the fecal material of the Yangtze finless porpoise or Neophocaena phocaenoides asiaeorientalis. The researchers gathered fecal samples from 12 Yangtze finless porpoises at Poyang Lake from March 2 to 11, 2010, wherein they used a non-invasive method. They also used the ZR Fecal DNA kit to extract DNA from feces. They found that Helicobacter cetorum can effectively colonize different cetaceans including the Yangtze finless porpoise, the beluga whale and many different dolphin species.

Abstract: The definite mode of transmission of Helicobacter infection is largely unknown. This study was carried out primarily, to determine the existence of Helicobacter spp. in the oral secretions of stray cats as one of the possible routes of transmission and secondly, to evaluate the accordance between oral and gastric colonization of Helicobacter spp. in these cats. Forty-three adult stray cats were thus studied for the presence of Helicobacter species by quantitative rapid urease test (RUT), cytology and PCR. Helicobacter spp. were found in the oral secretions and gastric biopsies of 93% and 67.5% of the stray cats, respectively. There was not, however, any agreement observed between Helicobacter colonization at these two locations, at neither genus nor species level. These findings suggest that the oral cavity is routinely exposed to transient forms of bacteria and may temporarily harbor Helicobacter spp. Thus, oral cavity as a source of Helicobacter spp. may act as a reservoir for transmission and may not necessarily reflect the colonization status of the gastric mucosa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective. To determine the presence of bacteria type Helicobacter spp., from gastric ulcers in horses. Materials and methods. Forty horses, 28 males and 12 females (4-17, years) were included. The frequency of presentation of bacteria like Helicobacter spp, was analyzed in descriptive form by means of the urease test UT), Gram (GS) stain and whartin-starry stain. Variables considered were the total of animals, anatomical (gastric segment of the mucous one) area, sex and age. Results. It was found the presence of bacteria like Helicobacter spp., the 65.0% of the horses were positive to urease test, 75.0% of the horses were positive to the whartin-starry and 50% to Gram stain. Only 62.5% of the animals were positive in both tests (urease test and whartin starry); meanwhile, 50.0% were positive in three tests (urease test, whartin starry and gram stain). 22.5% of the animals were negative in all tests. All of the positive samples were taken in the glandular mucous, mainly at the level of the fundus and hole gastric. Bacteria were found in all studied groups and both sex, major positivity was observed in males to two tests or more. From microscopic point of view it was observed shape curve spiral bacteria compatible to Helicobacter spp. Ureasa test was moderate, un few positive specimens showed high number of bacteria by using Whartin Starry stain. Conclusions. The bacteria Helicobacter spp., were present in the gastric ulcers of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between Helicobacter spp. infection of the feline stomach and the presence of gastric lesions and epithelial proliferation within the mucosa of this tissue. The study included 23 pet cats of both sexes and of varied age and breed. Eighteen of these animals were clinically normal and five had a history of chronic vomiting. Samples of the mucosa of the pyloric antrum, corpus and fundus were collected by gastroscopy. The presence of Helicobacter spp. was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or Warthin–Starry (WS) staining and the species of Helicobacter was determined by PCR. Mucosal lesions were evaluated by examination of sections stained by haematoxylin and eosin (HE) and epithelial proliferation was determined by enumerating nucleolar organizer regions (AgNOR). In 20 (87%) cats the presence of Helicobacter spp. was confirmed by both PCR and WS. There was no significant difference in colonization density between the different gastric regions. H. heilmannii was the most frequently identified species (17 of 20 cats), and H. felis was only identified in co-infection (two of 17 cats). One sample that was PCR positive to the genus level for Helicobacter spp. was negative for the four individual species reactions. Histological changes in the lamina propria included mild mononuclear inflammatory infiltration, the presence of lymphoid follicles, fibrosis and glandular degeneration. These changes were most severe in the pyloric antrum. There was significant association between infection with gastric Helicobacter spp. and the presence of lymphoid follicles (P =0.03), and between infection and epithelial proliferation in the antrum (P <0.01), corpus (P <0.001) and fundus (P <0.001). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: In dogs, the gastric Helicobacter spp. have been well studied, but there is little information regarding the other parts of the alimentary system. We sought to determine the spatial distribution of Helicobacter spp. in the gastrointestinal tract and the hepatobiliary system of dogs using culture-independent methods. Materials and methods: Samples of stomach, duodenum, ileum, cecum, colon, pancreas, liver, and bile from six dogs were evaluated for Helicobacter spp. by genus, gastric, and enterohepatic Helicobacter spp. Polymerase chain reaction, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, immunohistochemistry, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Results: In the stomach, Helicobacter spp. DNA was detected in all six dogs, with H. bizzozeronii and H. felis identified by specific polymerase chain reaction. Helicobacter organisms were localized within the surface mucus, the lumen of gastric glands, and inside parietal cells. The small intestine harbored gastric and enterohepatic Helicobacter spp. DNA/antigen in low amounts. In the cecum and colon, Helicobacter spp. DNA, with highest similarity to H. bilis/flexispira taxon 8, H. cinaedi, and H. canis, was detected in all six dogs. Helicobacter organisms were localized at the mucosal surface and within the crypts. Gastric Helicobacter spp. DNA was detected occasionally in the large intestine, but no gastric Helicobacter spp. were present in clone libraries or detected by FISH. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that in addition to the stomach, the large intestine of dogs is also abundantly colonized by Helicobacter spp. Additional studies are necessary to investigate the association between enterohepatic Helicobacter spp. and presence of intestinal inflammatory or proliferative disorders in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 75 biopsied samples of cardia, fundus, body, and pyloric antrum from necropsied dogs that were submitted to the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University from April 2003 to June 2004 were investigated. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of Helicobacter spp. in canine stomach by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in comparison to histochemistry versus immunohistochemistry (IHC), and to correlate these diagnostic methods with the clinical significance in infected dogs. Histopathological results revealed 60.0% (45/75) of samples to be positive, and consisted of mild gastritis in 64.44% (29/45), moderate gastritis in 11.11% (5/45), and severe gastritis in 24.44% (11/45). The proportion showing no histopathological lesions was 40.0% (30/75). Helicobacter spp. were localized to the luminal crypt in 18.67% (14/75), gastric pit in 22.67% (17/75), gastric gland in 21.33% (16/75), and gastric epithelium in 8% (6/ 75). The percentages of positive samples of Helicobacter spp. diagnosed by hematoxylin and eosin stain (H&E), Warthin Starry stain (WSS), IHC with rabbit polyclonal anti-H. pylori antibody, and PCR were 17.3% (13/75), 46.7% (35/75), 30.7% (23/75), and 10.7% (8/75), respectively. No significant differences weree observed in histopathological changes in portions of the stomach (p > 0.05). The diagnosis of Helicobacter spp. by PCR in comparison to that by WSS and IHC was not significantly different (p > 0.05). There were no relationships between pathological studies using H&E, WSS, and IHC, and especially between PCR and clinical signs of Helicobacter spp. infections in canine stomachs (p #x003E; 0.05). The present study revealed significantly different levels of correlation for Helicobacter spp. detection between H&E and WSS (p > 0.001). Results indicate that the method of choice for diagnosis of Helicobacter spp. infection in canine stomach is dependent on the purpose of study and appropriate specimen collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The mechanisms by which epithelial cells discriminate between pathogenic and commensal micro-organisms are still poorly understood. Nod1 (CARD4), a cytosolic molecule with homology to plant resistance proteins, was shown to initiate innate immune signaling in epithelial cells to invasive bacterial pathogens. We recently identified Nod1 as also playing a key role in epithelial cell responses to a non-invasive bacterium, Helicobacter pylori. The Nod1 signaling cascade was triggered by H. pylori delivery of peptidoglycan, a component of its cell wall, to host cells. It appeared that Nod1 recognition of H. pylori might represent a novel paradigm of host innate immune “sensing” of non-invasive bacteria that cause mucosal inflammation. We have tested this hypothesis by investigating epithelial cell responses to intestinal Helicobacter spp., several of which are known to induce colitis in animal hosts. Of the various isolates tested, only one (Helicobacter muridarum) induced Nod1-dependent signaling in intestinal epithelial cells. H. muridarum is a member of the intestinal flora of conventional rodents, yet has previously been associated with the development of colitis in mice. Taken together, the findings suggest that Nod1 may play a key role in the etiology of a variety of inflammatory conditions triggered by the host microflora. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Amplifying bacterial DNA by PCR from human biopsy specimens has sometimes proved to be difficult, mainly due to the low amount of bacterial DNA present. Therefore, nested or semi-nested 16S rDNA PCR amplification has been the method of choice. In this study, we evaluate the potential use of whole genome amplification of total DNA isolated from human colon and rectum biopsy specimens, followed by 16S rDNA PCR amplification of multiple displacement amplified (MDA)-DNA. Subsequently, a H. pylori-specific 16S rDNA variable V3 region PCR assay was applied directly on MDA-DNA and, combined with pyrosequencing analysis; the presence of H. pylori in some biopsies from colon in patients with microscopic colitis was confirmed. Furthermore, temporal temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TTGE) of 16S rDNA amplicons using primers flanking variable regions V3, V4, and V9, was used to establish bacterial profiles from individual biopsies. A variation of the bacterial profiles in the colonic mucosa in microscopic colitis and in normal rectal mucosa was observed. In conclusion we find the MDA technique to be a useful method to overcome the problem of insufficient bacterial DNA in human biopsy specimens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Problem assessed:: Hepatitis, either acute or chronic, is a relatively common hepatic disease in dogs. Several forms of canine hepatitis can occur, some with a defined cause, most cases have an unknown etiology. The similarities between canine hepatitis and human viral hepatitis suggest that canine hepatitis may have a viral etiology too. Objective:: To test liver tissue of dogs with hepatitis for the presence of candidate agents based on their known association with hepatitis in other mammals. Methods and approach:: The following infectious agents were tested by PCR: Hepadnaviridae, Helicobacter spp., Leptospira spp., Borrelia spp., hepatitis A virus, hepatitis C virus and hepatitis E virus. Also canine adenovirus and parvovirus were included. Ninety-eight liver tissue samples of dogs with various histologically diagnoses forms of hepatitis were tested. Primers were designed on conserved regions in the genome of each of these agents, to increase the likelihood of detection by PCR. To further increase sensitivity, nested PCRs for all agents were designed. Finally, for each agent a nested short primer PCR (SPP) was performed. Results:: None of these agents were detected by nested PCR and nested SPP. However, in two acute hepatitis liver samples parvovirus was detected by nested PCR, and one of these was also detected by nested SPP. Conclusions:: Hepatitis in dogs is not caused by agents with high homology to known infectious agents that cause hepatitis in other species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]