In Silico and In Vitro Investigation of Anti Helicobacter Activity of Selected Phytochemicals

INTRODUCTION: Helicobacter pylori is Gram-negative helical bacteria that inhibit stomach mucosal lining and establish infection. Urease enzyme was confirmed to be pivotal target in which its suppression will prompt bacteria treatment and eradication. METHODS: Series of naturally bioactive compounds were selected based on ethnobotanical and molecular modeling techniques with potential urease inhibitory effect. The selected phytochemical compounds were in-silico and in-vitro assayed against urease enzyme, minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and a synergistic effect was studied and cultured specifically for H. pylori. RESULTS: Terpineol was considered as the most active compound with an IC(50) of 1.443 μg/ml (R(2) = 0.9374). The synergistic effect of terpineol and metronidazole indicated a possible additive effect (fractional inhibitory concentration result is 0.78) with improvement of MIC results for both terpineol and metronidazole. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that terpineol is best to be considered as a lead compound for H. pylori infection treatment and could be a potent inhibitor when combined with metronidazole targeting urease enzyme.