Escherichia coli CFT073

Escherichia coli CFT073 is a mesophilic microbe, preferring temperatures between 20°C and 40°C, and is classified as a heterotroph, meaning it utilizes organic compounds as its energy source. This microbe is incapable of producing its own food through photosynthesis, relying instead on the breakdown of existing organic matter. Its energy production is primarily attributed to the breakdown of glucose, which is converted into ATP through cellular respiration. Gram-staining of E. coli CFT073 reveals a characteristic Gram-negative cell, consisting of an outer membrane and a thin peptidoglycan layer. The bacterium's shape is rod-shaped, also known as bacillary, with rounded ends. As a ubiquitous microbe, E. coli CFT073 can be found inhabiting various body sites, including the gastrointestinal tract of animals and humans, as well as soil, water, and plant surfaces. In terms of oxygen preference, E. coli CFT073 is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it can grow in both the presence and absence of oxygen. Additionally, it exhibits aerotolerance, allowing it to survive in environments with varying oxygen levels. This adaptability allows the microbe to thrive in a range of ecological niches, from the aerobic environments of the human gut to the anaerobic environments of soil and water. Lastly, it's worth noting that E. coli CFT073 is commonly used as a model organism in scientific research, particularly in the study of urinary tract infections. Its ability to form biofilms on bladder and kidney surfaces makes it a significant pathogen in human health, and its genetic tractability has facilitated the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.