Escherichia coli strain St. Olav39

Escherichia coli strain St. Olav39 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium classified as a facultative anaerobe, capable of thriving in both oxygen-rich and low-oxygen environments. It typically exists in pairs or as single cells and exhibits motility due to the presence of flagella. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. The strain is primarily host-associated and is known to inhabit a diverse range of hosts, including mammals such as Homo sapiens, Bos taurus, and Canis lupus familiaris, as well as avian species like Gallus gallus and Meleagris gallopavo. It also associates with various other organisms, including plants like Solanum lycopersicum and Brassica oleracea var. italica. E. coli St. Olav39 is implicated in numerous health effects, particularly in humans, where it can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and more serious conditions like septicemia and neonatal meningitis. The strain is known for its pathogenicity, contributing to a range of diseases including diarrhea, colibacillosis, and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The ecological role of E. coli strain St. Olav39 highlights its versatility as both a free-living organism and a pathogen, illustrating its ability to thrive in diverse environments while impacting host health significantly. Understanding such strains is crucial for public health, particularly in managing infections and preventing foodborne illnesses.