The Department of Microbiology is leading the quest to find answers to this
bacterium which is present in almost half the world's population.
Led by Assoc Prof Ho Bow, the NUS team made their first breakthrough
when they spotted two differentiated forms
the spiral and coccoid -- and not one as was generally believed.
The cell cycle of the bacterium has been characterised, which has contributed to a better understanding of the source and mode of transmission of the bacterium. This has considerable medical implications for patients with H.pylori infections irrespective of whether the symptoms are obvious or not.
The two forms have been successfully grown in the laboratory using a continuous culture system which simulates the stringent growth requirements of this organism in its natural microaerophilic environment. From their culture, highly specific antigens were
prepared for the detection of H.pylori antibodies in pregnant mothers, blood donors, patients with duodenal and gastric ulcer, non-ulcer dyspepsia, gastric carcinoma and active chronic gastritis. The team has also identified other useful proteins of the
H.pylori that has provided substantial information on infection of H.pylori.
Two patents on protein and therapeutics have been filed to protect the intellectual property of the NUS. A third patent is in the pipeline.
The research findings have been so promising that two pharmaceutical companies have entered into agreements with the NUS. ChemTrak (USA) has signed a licensing agreement for the transfer of technology, and has provided the NUS royalties on antigens used i n its diagnostic kits. Cortecs (UK) has a broader arrangement to collaborate with the NUS in the search for cures against H.pylori infections. It is providing research funding for the H.pylori project and will pay royalties for the intellectual property u sed in the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products.
