Is Lactococcus lactis a Suitable Candidate for Use as a Vaccine Delivery System Against Helicobacter pylori?

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori was described in 1979. This bacterium, which thrives in the harsh conditions of the stomach, is typically acquired during childhood and can remain colonized for life. Approximately, 90% of the global population is affected, and H. pylori is linked to various conditions, including gastritis, peptic ulcers, lymphoproliferative gastric lymphoma, and even gastric cancer. Currently, antibiotics are the primary treatment method, but the associated challenges of antibiotic use have led to the consideration of oral vaccination as a viable preventive measure against this infection. However, the stomach's harsh environment characterized by its acidic conditions and numerous proteolytic enzymes poses significant obstacles to the development and effectiveness of oral vaccines. To address these challenges, researchers have proposed and evaluated several delivery systems. One of the most promising options is the use of probiotics. Among the various probiotics, Lactococcus lactis stands out as a suitable candidate for oral vaccine delivery against H. pylori due to the advancements in genetic engineering that have been applied to it. This review article discusses the limitations of current treatment strategies and rationalizes the shift toward vaccination, particularly oral vaccination for this infection. It also explores the advantages and challenges of using probiotic bacteria, with a focus on L. lactis as a delivery system. Ultimately, despite the existing challenges, L. lactis continues to be recognized as a promising delivery system. Nonetheless, further research is essential to fully assess its effectiveness and address the challenges associated with this approach.