# Targeting Helicobacter pylori enzymes using Viscum album L. extract: in silico molecular docking and in vitro study

## TL;DR

This study explores how mistletoe extract can inhibit harmful enzymes and virulence factors in bacteria, suggesting its potential as a natural treatment for infections.

## Contribution

The study combines in silico and in vitro methods to show that Viscum album L. extract can inhibit Helicobacter pylori enzymes and bacterial virulence factors.

## Key findings

- Mistletoe extract significantly inhibited urease activity at 0.0125 mg/mL, reducing crystal formation in artificial urine.
- The extract suppressed biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
- It also inhibited protease activity in S. aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

## Abstract

Viscum album L. (mistletoe) is a hemiparasitic plant known for its wide range of bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and lectins, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological properties. In the present study, we focused on identifying and quantifying the phenolic compounds present in V. album L. leaf extracts and evaluating their potential as inhibitors of key Helicobacter pylori enzymes through both in silico and in vitro approaches. Using molecular docking, we assessed the binding affinity and stability of selected mistletoe’s phytochemicals with specific H. pylori targets, including peptide deformylase, shikimate pathway enzymes, and urease. Additionally, to complement the computational findings, we conducted an in vitro assay to evaluate the anti-urease activity of the crude V. album L. extract against the urease activity of Proteus mirabilis. The extract demonstrated significant inhibitory activity, indicating its potential as a natural urease inhibitor at a concentration of 0.0125 mg/mL, leading to a marked reduction in urease-mediated crystal formation in artificial urine. Furthermore, the extract exhibited broad-spectrum anti virulence effects by suppressing biofilm formation in Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and inhibiting protease activity in S. aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Together, these findings highlight V. album phenolics as promising dual-action natural inhibitors that not only target essential metabolic enzymes but also attenuate virulence factors critical for pathogenesis. This integrated strategy positions V. album as a strong candidate for the development of plant-based therapeutics against multidrug-resistant pathogens with possible applications in the treatment of H. pylori-related gastrointestinal disorders.