Escherichia coli strain GER_MD14_1505_Eco_038

Escherichia coli strain GER_MD14_1505_Eco_038 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits mobility due to the presence of flagella. This strain is classified as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. It is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, which corresponds to the normal human body temperature. GER_MD14_1505_Eco_038 is host-associated and has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various domesticated animals such as Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), and Sus scrofa (pigs), as well as numerous other vertebrates and invertebrates. This bacterium can establish free-living biotic relationships, indicating its capability to survive outside of host organisms under certain conditions. The strain 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 more severe conditions such as septicemia and neonatal meningitis. Other health issues linked to this strain include diarrheal diseases, colibacillosis, and complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), highlighting its pathogenicity. The extensive host range and the diverse pathological effects associated with GER_MD14_1505_Eco_038 underscore its ecological versatility and potential impact on both human and animal health. Understanding its pathogenic mechanisms and transmission dynamics can provide insights into preventing infections and managing outbreaks related to this strain.