New approach in fight against stomach ulcers

Seifun Group, has developed a substance that interferes with the ability of Helicobacter pylori bacteria to adhere to the stomach's mucous membrane.

Japanese company Nisshin Pharma, a subsidiary of Nisshin The company plans to promote the substance for use in foods and dietary supplements to help prevent stomach ulcers and other problems these bacteria can cause.

Nisshin Pharma was involved in earlier studies that identified the enzyme urease on the surface of the bacteria as a factor promoting adhesion. The substance it has created reacts with H. pylori urease and interferes with the bacteria's ability to attack the inner lining of the stomach. Known as FP-10 it is derived from a milk protein and retains activity across a broad pH range. Animal and human tests have confirmed that FP-10 can block H. pylori from attaching and proliferating.

Since FP-10 is degraded and absorbed by the digestive system, the company considers it a highly safe substance. For its first applications, Nissinn Pharma will develop FP-10 for yogurt and supplements. It will use the substance for its own products and sell it to other food companies.