Helicobacter pylori, Purified

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped, Gram-negative rod approximately 0.5x3.0um in size. The catalase-positive organism has 4-6 sheathed flagella attached to one pole which allow for motility. Helicobacter pylori lives in the stomach and duodenum (section of intestine just below stomach). It has a unique way of adapting in the harsh environment of the stomach. The inside of the stomach is bathed in about half a gallon of gastric juice every day. Gastric juice is composed of digestive enzymes and concentrated hydrochloric acid, which can readily tear apart the toughest food or microorganism. Bacteria, viruses, and yesterdays steak dinner are all consumed in this deadly bath of chemicals. It used to be thought that the stomach contained no bacteria and was actually sterile, but Helicobacter pylori changed that. The stomach is protected from its own gastric juice by a thick layer of mucus that covers the stomach lining. Helicobacter pylori takes advantage of this protection by living in the mucus lining. Once H. pylori is safely ensconced in the mucus, it is able to fight the stomach acid that does reach it with an enzyme it possesses called urease. Urease converts urea, of which there is an abundant supply in the stomach (from saliva and gastric juices), into bicarbonate and ammonia, which are strong bases. This creates a cloud of acid neutralizing chemicals around the H. pylori, protecting it from the acid in the stomach. The reaction of urea hydrolysis is important for diagnosis of H. pylori by the breath test. Applications: Suitable for use in ELISA or for antigen applications in immunological protocols. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. For long-term storage, aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing and freeze at -70°C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap