Biological characteristics and virulence of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i>
This review summarizes the most recent data on the biological characteristics of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> (morphological, cultural, biochemical). <i>H. pylori</i> pathogenicity factors promoting colonization, adhesion, biofilm formation, aggression, and cytotoxicity, their contribution to the pathogenesis of diseases as well as the possible relationships with various clinical outcomes are described in detail. The genetic heterogeneity of <i>H. pylori</i> strains which can determine different clinical manifestations and have significance for conducting epidemiological studies is also considered.