Researchers from Gent University in Belgium have isolated a new bacterium in pigs’ stomachs with the help of a pioneering technique, offering hope of new treatments to people who suffer with stomach ulcers.
Researchers conducted genetic analysis and identified a new species related to the common stomach ulcer bacterium of humans Helicobacter pylori – Helicobacter suis. "We have developed a new method to cultivate these bacteria and can now study their main characteristics and virulence properties," said Professor Dr Freddy Haesebrouck from Gent University in Belgium.
H. suis has been linked to stomach ulcers in pigs, which may cause sudden death.
"The economic losses for the pork industry and the risk of the bacteria infecting humans justify the need for further research," said Dr Margo Baele from Gent University in Belgium.
"Data shows that people in close contact with pigs have a higher risk of infection; this suggests H. suis is a zoonotic agent, capable of being transmitted from animals to humans.
Haesebrouck said: "We know very little about how the bacterium infects humans and pigs and how it causes disease. Thanks to this research, pure isolates of H. suis are now available, bringing new perspectives to the study of this organism and its interaction with the host.
Researchers will now be able to study the bacterium to determine its sensitivity to antibiotics, which will lead to better treatment strategies, both in pigs and humans.
The researchers hope it may also result in the development of an effective vaccine.
The study is published in the June issue of the International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology.
Source:
ASRP Newsletter, June 10, 2008
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/health/researchers-identify-stomach-ulcer-bug-in-pigs-stomachs_10058088.html