Open AccessHelicobacter pylori in familial clusters based on antibody profile
Author(s) -
Ng Bee Ling,
Ng Han Chong,
Goh Kee Tai,
Ho Bow
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
fems immunology & medical microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1574-695X
pISSN - 0928-8244
DOI - 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2001.tb01562.x
Subject(s) - helicobacter pylori , serology , biology , antibody , transmission (telecommunications) , immunology , spirillaceae , blot , virology , genetics , gastritis , gene , electrical engineering , engineering
Studies have shown a high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in close communities and that intrafamilial spread during early childhood may be a route of transmission. A total of 72 household members from 21 families were enrolled in this study. Sera from individuals showed 50/72 (69.4%) seropositive for IgG against H. pylori by ELISA. Western blots showed diversity in the protein profiles with molecular masses ranging from ∼8 to 130 kDa. Cohen's κ statistical analysis of the blot patterns showed that nine families demonstrated similar profiles (100%), while 4 other families showed varying similarities (17–50%). The results support the hypothesis of intrafamilial transmission of H. pylori . Furthermore, serological studies can be used as an effective approach to determine the familial status in relation to H. pylori infection.