Escherichia coli strain KCJK1866

Escherichia coli strain KCJK1866 is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium found primarily in host-associated environments. This strain exhibits a facultative anaerobic metabolism, allowing it to thrive in various oxygen conditions. It is capable of movement, facilitated by the presence of flagella, and typically exists in pairs or as single cells. The optimal growth temperature for KCJK1866 is 37°C, classifying it as mesophilic. It has a single replicon and is characterized by two membranes, which is a typical feature of gram-negative bacteria. KCJK1866 is free living but is associated with a wide range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various livestock species such as Bos taurus and Sus scrofa, and even plants like Solanum lycopersicum and Brassica oleracea var. italica. This strain is known for its pathogenic potential in humans, contributing to a variety of health issues, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Its ability to cause both localized infections, such as peritonitis and clinical mastitis, and systemic issues, such as septicemia and meningitis, highlights its significant impact on health. Ecologically, the broad range of hosts indicates that KCJK1866 may play a role in the transmission of pathogens across species, particularly in environments where human and animal interactions are prevalent. Its presence in both human and animal hosts underlines the importance of monitoring and understanding this strain in relation to public health and disease management.