Escherichia coli strain 304

Escherichia coli strain 304 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic metabolism. It typically exists in pairs or as single cells and possesses flagella, which confer mobility. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, and it has a biotic relationship characterized as free-living. E. coli strain 304 is associated with a wide range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various domesticated animals such as Gallus gallus (chicken) and Bos taurus (cattle), as well as plants like Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli). The strain is known for its significant health impacts, particularly in humans, where it is linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions like neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Its pathogenicity underscores the strain's role in both enteric and extraintestinal diseases, contributing to various health complications such as diarrhea, peritonitis, and even complications in pregnancy. The ecological insight from the diverse host range and pathogenic effects of E. coli strain 304 suggests its adaptability and potential for transmission across species, including humans and livestock. This adaptability highlights the importance of monitoring this strain in both clinical and agricultural settings, as its presence can significantly influence public health and food safety.