Cell vacuolization induced by Helicobacter pylori: Inhibition by bafilomycins A1, B1, C1 and D

All available bafilomycins (A1, B1, C1 and D) inhibit and revert macroscopic vacuolization induced by Helicobacter pylori cell‐free extracts. Bafilomycin A1 displays the highest activity, followed by bafilomycin B1, C1 and D. The different potency of bafilomycins correlates with their ability to inhibit the vacuolar‐type ATPase (V‐ATPase) and to dissipate the membrane pH gradient of intracellular acidic organelles. These results suggest that bafilomycins should be considered as possible therapeutic agents in the treatment of gastritis.