Effects of Helicobacter pylori infection on MUC5AC protein expression in gastric cancer

Aim: To investigate the effects of the expression of the MUC5AC protein in gastric cancer depending on the Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection status. Materials & methods: The MUC5AC protein and mRNA were detected using western blot and real-time PCR protocols in gastric cancer tissue and stratified for Hp infection. Gastric mucus membranes near the cancer site serve as the control group. Results: The expression of MUC5AC protein and mRNA is significantly decreased in gastric cancer tissue (p < 0.05). The decrease was more significant in the Hp-infected group than in the Hp-uninfected group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The infection of Hp is correlated with a decrease in MUC5AC protein amount in gastric cancer tissue. The current result suggests that there may be a potential necessary link between Hp, MUC5AC and gastric cancer.