Effect of Helicobacter pylori DNA in human atherosclerotic plaques

Introduction: A number of studies have demonstrated that infectious mico organisms like helicobacter pylori may play a role in the process of atherosclerosis. We, here, aimed to investigate the effect of Helicobacter pylori DNA in atherosclerotic plaques in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 85 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in Jorjani heart center, Bandar Abbas, were enrolled. Using standard questionnaire, demographic and clinical data were gathered. Obtained specimens were processed and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was carried out. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS. Results: Helicobacter pylori DNA was detected within atherosclerotic plaques, in only 4 out of 85 patients (4.7%), where as, 3 out of 85 control specimens from internal mammary artery were positive for presence of the mentioned bacteria. There was no difference between atherosclerotic plaque and thoracic biopsy in terms of Helicobacter pylori DNA positivity. Conclusion: We did not find any association between the presence of Helicobacter pylori and development of atherosclerosis.