Enterococcus faecalis strain 5A-13

Enterococcus faecalis strain 5A-13 is a Gram-positive, non-motile cocci bacterium that serves as a facultative anaerobe, capable of thriving in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. This strain is classified as a chemoorganotroph, utilizing organic compounds for energy. It has a single membrane and a singular replicon, indicating its relatively simple cellular structure. The optimal growth temperature for strain 5A-13 is 37°C, placing it within the mesophilic temperature range. E. faecalis strain 5A-13 is free-living and has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, Bos, various Metazoa, Lutjanus russellii, Danio rerio, Sus scrofa, Insecta, Canis lupus familiaris, Felis catus, and Phocoena phocoena. This wide host range suggests that E. faecalis can adapt to various ecological niches, which may contribute to its pathogenic potential. The strain is associated with a multitude of health effects in humans, including bacteremia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), endocarditis, meningitis, and various nosocomial infections. Such pathogenic effects underline its role as a significant opportunistic pathogen, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the ecological adaptability and pathogenicity of Enterococcus faecalis strain 5A-13 is crucial for developing strategies to manage its infections, particularly in hospital settings where its nosocomial infections pose a significant risk to patient health.