The main difference between Helicobacter pylori and Campylobacter jejuni is that Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative bacterium belonging to the genus Helicobacter whereas Campylobacter jejuni is also a gram-negative bacterium but belongs to the genus Campylobacter.
H.pylori and C. jejuni belong to the group of gram-negative bacteria that are commonly associated with gastrointestinal infections.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Helicobacter Pylori
– Definition, Features, Diseases
2. What is Campylobacter Jejuni
– Definition, Features, Diseases
3. Similarities Between Helicobacter Pylori and Campylobacter Jejuni
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Helicobacter Pylori and Campylobacter Jejuni
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Helicobacter Pylori, Campylobacter Jejuni
What is Helicobacter Pylori
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium that colonizes the human stomach. H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium that possesses multiple flagella. These flagella allow it to move through the mucus layer of the stomach and colonize the gastric epithelium. H. pylori infection is typically acquired in childhood and can persist for a lifetime if left untreated. The bacteria colonize the stomach lining, particularly the antrum (lower part of the stomach) and the gastric mucosa. The infection induces a chronic inflammatory response in the gastric mucosa, leading to various pathological changes.
Figure 1: Helicobacter Pylori
It is a significant cause of various gastrointestinal diseases. It is estimated that more than half of the world’s population is infected with H. pylori, making it one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide.
Gastrointestinal Conditions Associated with H.pylori
H.pylori is associated with several gastrointestinal conditions:
1. Chronic Gastritis: The bacterium directly damages the gastric epithelial cells and triggers an immune response, leading to the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the gastric mucosa.
2. Peptic Ulcers: The chronic inflammation caused by the bacterium weakens the protective mucosal barrier of the stomach and duodenum, making them more susceptible to damage by stomach acid. This can result in the formation of ulcers, which are open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
3. Gastric Cancer: Chronic inflammation and the production of certain virulence factors by the bacterium can lead to genetic mutations and alterations in the gastric epithelial cells, promoting the development of malignancies over time. However, it is important to note that most individuals infected with H. pylori do not develop gastric cancer, as other genetic and environmental factors also play a role.
What is Campylobacter Jejuni
Campylobacter jejuni is a gram-negative bacterium that is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Campylobacter jejuni is a curved or S-shaped bacterium that belongs to the genus Campylobacter. It possesses a single polar flagellum at one or both ends, which allows it to move in a corkscrew-like motion. C. jejuni is microaerophilic, meaning it thrives in environments with low oxygen levels. It is also thermophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of around 42°C (108°F).
Campylobacter jejuni is a major cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Ingestion of contaminated food or water contaminated with C. jejuni can lead to infection and subsequent illness. Moreover, the bacterium primarily affects the small intestine, where it attaches to the intestinal lining and causes inflammation.
Figure 2: Campylobacter Jejuni
Campylobacter jejuni infections are primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water. The bacterium is commonly found in the intestines of various animals, like poultry, cattle, and wild birds. Contamination of food products can occur during processing or through cross-contamination during food handling. Undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, and contaminated water are common sources of C. jejuni infection.
Symptoms of Campylobacter jejuni infection typically appear 2 to 5 days after exposure and may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Similarities Between Helicobacter Pylori and Campylobacter Jejuni
- H. pylori and C. jejuni belong to the group of gram-negative bacteria.
- Also, both are commonly associated with gastrointestinal infections.
- Both H. pylori and C. jejuni primarily infect humans.
Difference Between Helicobacter Pylori and Campylobacter Jejuni
Definition
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a gram-negative bacterium that colonizes the human stomach, while Campylobacter jejuni is a gram-negative bacterium that is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide.
Bacterial Classification and Morphology
Helicobacter pylori belongs to the genus Helicobacter and is a helical or spiral-shaped bacterium. It possesses multiple flagella that enable its movement through the mucus layer of the stomach. Campylobacter jejuni, on the other hand, belongs to the genus Campylobacter and has a curved or S-shaped morphology. It is also flagellated, allowing it to move in a corkscrew-like motion.
Natural Habitat
Helicobacter pylori primarily colonizes the human stomach, where it can survive acidic conditions and adheres to the gastric epithelium. However, Campylobacter jejuni is commonly found in the intestines of various animals, including poultry, cattle, and wild birds.
Transmission
Helicobacter pylori is primarily transmitted through person-to-person contact, often during early childhood. It can spread through the fecal-oral route, oral-oral route (such as through saliva), and possibly through contaminated food and water sources. Campylobacter jejuni infections, on the other hand, are commonly associated with the consumption of undercooked poultry, unpasteurized milk, or contaminated water. It can also spread through contact with infected animals or their feces.
Conclusion
The main difference between Helicobacter pylori and Campylobacter jejuni is that Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative bacterium belonging to the genus Helicobacter whereas Campylobacter jejuni is also a gram-negative bacterium but belongs to the genus Campylobacter.
Reference:
1. “Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.” Mayo Clinic.
2. “Campylobacter (Campylobacteriosis).” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Ulcer-causing Bacterium (H.Pylori) Crossing Mucus Layer of Stomach” By Zina Deretsky, National Science Foundation – NSF Flickr photostream (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “ARS Campylobacter jejuni” By De Wood, Pooley, USDA, ARS, EMU. – Agricultural Research Service (ARS), U.S. Department of Agriculture (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
Leave a Reply