Molecular basis for development of gastric cancer--in vivo and in vitro studies.

Identification of the pathogenic role of H. pylori in fection has revolutionized the approach toward chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, gastric MALT (mucosa associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma and gastric can cer. These diseases often result from infection of H. pylori, the accompanying host inflammatory response and the interaction with environmental factors. Eradi cation treatment against peptic ulcer disease is now approved by governmental health care system in Japan. Concerning gastric cancer, persistent histologic gastritis, followed by glandular atrophy, makes up a high back