Current research on the interaction between Helicobacter pylori and macrophages.

ABSTRACT

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacteria with a worldwide infection rate of 50%, known to induce gastritis, ulcers and gastric cancer. The interplay between H. pylori and immune cells within the gastric mucosa is pivotal in the pathogenesis of H. pylori-related disease. Following H. pylori infection, there is an observed increase in gastric mucosal macrophages, which are associated with the progression of gastritis. H. pylori elicits macrophage polarization, releases cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) to promote inflammatory response and eliminate H. pylori. Meanwhile, H. pylori has developed mechanisms to evade the host immune response in order to maintain the persistent infection, including interference with macrophage phagocytosis and antigen presentation, as well as induction of macrophage apoptosis. Consequently, the interaction between H. pylori and macrophages can significantly impact the progression, pathogenesis, and resolution of H. pylori infection. Moreover, macrophages are emerging as potential therapeutic targets for H. pylori-associated gastritis. Therefore, elucidating the involvement of macrophages in H. pylori infection may provide novel insights into the pathogenesis, progression, and management of H. pylori-related disease.