title: Functional and morphological alterations induced by Helicobacter pylori infection in gastric nerve supply.
abstract: Helicobacterpylori (HP) infection is the most common cause of many gastric diseases. One of its pathogenic mechanisms involves the production of a wide spectrum of alterations in different components of the gastric enteric nervous system. Changes in neural circuitry encompass structural abnormalities, sensitive and motor function impairment, altered content and release of neurotransmitters, and seem to be related rather to the inflammatory response of gastric wall than to the bacterial colonization. Although gathered data provide new insights into the complex mechanisms underlying the interactions between HP and enteric nervous system, there still are some controversial aspects. Interestingly, it has been suggested that impaired neural activity might have a potential role in gastric carcinogenesis, but this hypothesis requires further investigation. Future studies shall, therefore, elucidate the neuromodulatory influences of Helicobacter pylori infection on the enteric nervous system. A better comprehension on neural changes during HP-induced inflammation could help in identifying new therapeutic options.
authors.forename: Liana
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Sticlaru
authors.forename: Alexandra
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bastian
authors.forename: Gianina
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Micu
authors.forename: Florica
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Stăniceanu
authors.forename: Cristiana
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Popp
mesh_terms: D005769:Gastrointestinal Motility; D016481:Helicobacter Infections; D016480:Helicobacter pylori; D006801:Humans; D006930:Hyperalgesia; D007422:Intestines / Q000294:innervation; D013270:Stomach / Q000294:innervation*; D014781:Viscera / Q000294:innervation