Escherichia coli strain OLC1000

Escherichia coli strain OLC1000 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic lifestyle. This strain is capable of mobility due to the presence of flagella and typically forms arrangements of single cells or pairs. It thrives optimally at 37°C and falls within the mesophilic temperature range. OLC1000 is predominantly host-associated and has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various mammals such as Bos taurus and Canis lupus familiaris, birds like Gallus gallus and Meleagris gallopavo, as well as several plant species such as Solanum lycopersicum. This reflects its ecological versatility and ability to inhabit multiple biological niches. The strain is implicated in various health conditions, particularly in humans, where it can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and even severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Its pathogenicity is significant, with a broad spectrum of associated diseases including food poisoning, colibacillosis, and septicemia. The presence of E. coli strain OLC1000 in multiple hosts suggests a complex ecological relationship, where it can act as a free-living organism while also being a pathogen in certain contexts. This dual role underscores the importance of understanding host-pathogen interactions and the potential health impacts of such versatile strains in both human health and broader ecological systems.