The impact of Helicobacter pylori infection and eradication therapies on gut microbiota: a systematic review of microbial dysbiosis and its implications in gastric carcinogenesis.

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is a globally prevalent bacterium associated with several gastrointestinal diseases, including peptic ulcers and gastric cancer. Growing interest has emerged in understanding how H. pylori affects gut microbiota and whether eradication therapies impact microbial balance, potentially influencing disease outcomes, including cancer progression.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases using predefined keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms. Quality assessment was performed using the MINORS and Jadad scales.

RESULTS

A total of 45 studies met the inclusion criteria, which evaluated microbial changes in H. pylori -infected individuals before and after eradication therapies. H. pylori infection resulted in significant alterations in gut and gastric microbiota, with a notable increase in inflammation-associated bacteria, such as Proteobacteria and Streptococcus. In gastric cancer patients, microbial diversity was reduced, with decreased levels of Bifidobacterium and Actinobacteria, and increased levels of Prevotella and Dialister, both associated with pro-inflammatory environments. Eradication therapies generally worsened dysbiosis initially, but probiotic supplementation promoted faster recovery of beneficial bacteria, improving microbial balance and reducing cancer-related dysbiosis.

CONCLUSION

H. pylori infection disrupts the gut microbiota, with eradication therapies further altering microbial composition. The restoration of microbial diversity is improved by probiotic supplementation. Understanding the long-term impacts of these therapies on gut health is essential for refining treatment strategies, particularly in preventing H. pylori -associated diseases like gastric cancer.