Escherichia coli strain A1_181

Escherichia coli strain A1_181 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium characterized by its facultative anaerobic metabolism, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. This strain exhibits mobility, facilitated by the presence of flagella, and typically arranges itself in pairs or as single cells. It is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. A1_181 is host-associated and demonstrates a free-living biotic relationship. It has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), various livestock such as Bos taurus (cattle) and Sus scrofa (pigs), as well as a variety of vertebrates and even some plants like Solanum lycopersicum (tomato). This broad host range suggests its ecological versatility and potential for transmission across different species. Health effects associated with E. coli strain A1_181 include a significant number of clinical conditions, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and more severe complications such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The strain's pathogenicity in humans highlights its potential as a serious public health concern, particularly in foodborne infections. The ecological insight drawn from the traits of E. coli strain A1_181 underscores its role in both environmental and clinical settings. Its ability to infect a wide array of hosts, coupled with its pathogenic potential, emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing this strain to mitigate health risks associated with its transmission and persistence in various habitats.