Helicobacter pylori uses the enzyme urease to counteract a chemical defense in the human organ in which it lives. This chemical defense is
a. lysozyme.
b. hydrochloric acid.
c. superoxide radicals.
d. sebum.
e. complement.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the organ where Helicobacter pylori resides, which is the stomach.
2. Understand that the stomach's primary chemical defense is its acidic environment.
3. Recognize that urease is an enzyme that neutralizes acid by converting urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide.
4. Determine which option corresponds to the acidic environment of the stomach.
5. Select the option that represents hydrochloric acid, as it is the main component of stomach acid.

Key Concepts

Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining and is known for its role in causing gastric ulcers and chronic gastritis. It has adapted to survive in the acidic environment of the stomach, which is typically hostile to most microorganisms. Understanding its mechanisms of survival, such as urease production, is crucial for comprehending its pathogenicity.

Urease Enzyme

Urease is an enzyme produced by H. pylori that catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. This reaction increases the local pH, neutralizing gastric acid and creating a more hospitable environment for the bacterium. The ability to produce urease is a key factor in H. pylori's survival and its ability to cause disease in the acidic stomach.

Gastric Acid

Gastric acid, primarily composed of hydrochloric acid, is secreted by the stomach lining and plays a vital role in digestion and protecting against pathogens. Its low pH is essential for breaking down food and activating digestive enzymes. H. pylori's ability to neutralize gastric acid through urease activity is a critical aspect of its pathogenic strategy, allowing it to thrive in an otherwise inhospitable environment.