Early Detection of Helicobacter Pylori Bacteria in Complex Samples

Helicobacter Pylori (HP) bacteria is considered as one of the most capable pathogens in colonizing the human gastrointestinal tract. It is a dangerous carcinogen bacterium that infects about 50% of humans. Infection with HP may begin during childhood and can persist lifelong. Thus, detecting HP at an early stage is very important to prevent developing symptoms. Consequently, reliable detection techniques of HP for in-vitro samples are very important. In-vitro detection can include contaminated food, water, public sanitary facility, and any contaminated environment. Several techniques are available for detection of HP in complex samples, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and urea breath test (UBT). However, these techniques usually need excessive sample processing, complex instruments, trained personnel, and long detection time. Nowadays, detection of pathogens in complex samples is becoming very important as they are becoming more resistant to antibiotics. In this contribution we review detection methods of HP and address thereby important findings in stool antigen tests, fluorescent detection methods, calorimetric detection methods, Surface Plasmon Resonance detection methods as well as electrochemical methods. In addition, we provide perspectives for future developments in this important and challenging field.