Escherichia coli strain ACN002

Escherichia coli strain ACN002 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium characterized by its ability to thrive in host-associated habitats. It exhibits mobility and possesses flagella, enabling it to move actively. ACN002 is classified as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to survive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. Its optimal growth temperature is 37°C, and it falls within the mesophilic temperature range. This strain has a single replicon and is surrounded by two membranes, typical of Gram-negative bacteria. ACN002 engages in free-living biotic relationships and has a broad host range, including Homo sapiens, various livestock (such as Gallus gallus and Bos taurus), domestic animals (like Canis lupus familiaris and Felis catus), as well as certain plants (e.g., Solanum lycopersicum) and invertebrates (e.g., Acanthamoeba). ACN002 is associated with a wide array of health effects, particularly in humans, where it is known to cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These health impacts underscore the strain’s pathogenicity and its role in various infectious diseases. The ecological insight from this strain's diverse host associations and pathogenic potential highlights the complex interplay between human health and environmental factors. The strain's ability to infect multiple species, including both mammals and plants, suggests a significant role in the microbial ecosystem, potentially influencing health outcomes in both animal and human populations.