Escherichia coli strain ECSW+04

Escherichia coli strain ECSW+04 is a Gram-negative, facultative anaerobic bacterium characterized by its rod shape and motility, facilitated by the presence of flagella. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, and exhibits a unique cell arrangement in pairs and singles. ECSW+04 is predominantly host-associated, demonstrating a free-living biotic relationship with a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various livestock such as Bos taurus and Sus scrofa, as well as other vertebrates and plants like Solanum lycopersicum and Brassica oleracea var. italica. Notably, this strain is associated with a wide array of health effects, particularly in humans, where it is implicated in urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as septicemia and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The strain's pathogenicity is predominantly human-centric, but it also affects other species, including livestock and pets, indicating its potential for zoonotic transmission. The presence of ECSW+04 in diverse ecological niches and its ability to cause significant health issues underscore its ecological versatility and importance. Understanding its interactions within various hosts and environments can provide valuable insights into its role in disease dynamics and potential impacts on public health, especially in relation to foodborne infections and cross-species transmission.