ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of the state of knowledge regarding the metabolism and enzymes ofHelicobacter pylori and their relationship to bacterial functions and potential virulence effects. Evidence for the presence of enzymes of the pentose phosphate pathway in H. pylori was obtained using P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. A particular feature of H. pylori urease is its location on the outer membrane and in the periplasm of the bacterium. The idea that the generation of large amounts of ammonia and bicarbonate ought to have some effect upon the host is central to a pathogenic role for H. pylori urease. There is a diverse array of putative functions and effects of H. pylori urease. There are several mechanisms whereby H. pylori urease may contribute to gastroduodenal pathology. B. L. Slomiany's group reported that protease enzymes of H. pylori have the capacity to degrade the glycoprotein of mucus and thereby weaken the barrier properties of the mucus gel.
