Escherichia coli strain 5CRE51

Escherichia coli strain 5CRE51 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is facultatively anaerobic and exhibits mobility due to the presence of flagella. This strain is typically found in pairs or as single cells and has a mesophilic temperature range, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. It possesses a single replicon and is characterized by a double membrane structure. 5CRE51 has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various livestock such as Bos taurus and Sus scrofa, and other organisms from different taxonomic groups, including Aves, Mammalia, and Metazoa. This indicates its broad ecological niche and adaptability to various environments, from human hosts to agricultural settings. The strain is known for its pathogenicity in humans, linked to numerous health effects, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and neonatal meningitis. These health impacts suggest that 5CRE51 can contribute to significant clinical challenges, particularly in vulnerable populations. The biotic relationship of 5CRE51 is categorized as free-living, indicating its ability to exist independently of a host while still being associated with various hosts. This duality underscores the strain's ecological versatility and its potential role in both environmental microbiomes and human health. The ability of E. coli to thrive in diverse habitats while also being a significant pathogen highlights the complex interplay between microbial life and host health.