Interactions between Helicobacter pylori and the local mucosal immune system

Abstract

The recognition that Helicobacter pylori is associated with an array of gastric disorders immediately raises several issues with regard to the role of the local immune system. The belief that the harsh gastric environment limits or prevents infection has perhaps dismissed studies into the immunology of the stomach as a low priority. Now, in combination with our understanding of local immune reactivity in pernicious anaemia, an interest in defining the contribution of the immune response in the pathogenesis of disease associated with H. pylori has fueled a great deal of interest. Furthermore, the evidence of local immunity to this bacteria has kindled interest that gastric immune/inflammatory responses may contribute to the treatment or prevention of a gastric infection.