Escherichia coli strain 3385

Escherichia coli strain 3385 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic metabolism, thriving optimally at 37°C within a mesophilic temperature range. The strain is motile, possessing flagella, and its cellular arrangement is typically found in pairs or as single cells. E. coli 3385 is characterized by having three replicons and a double-membrane structure, which is typical for Gram-negative organisms. This strain is host-associated, meaning it can be found in various organisms, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), and many others, encompassing a wide range of vertebrates and invertebrates. The biological interactions it has with these hosts can be classified as free-living, implying some degree of independence from a specific host. E. coli strain 3385 is known for its pathogenicity, particularly in humans, where it is linked to a spectrum of health issues. These include urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, neonatal meningitis, and other serious conditions such as hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The strain's ability to cause these diverse diseases highlights its significant role in both health and disease within various host species, including mammals and birds. The ecological implications of E. coli strain 3385’s pathogenicity suggest that its presence in multiple hosts could lead to zoonotic transmission and impact public health. Its association with both domestic and wild animals further underscores the importance of monitoring this strain to prevent outbreaks of foodborne and waterborne illnesses.