Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0128

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0128 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium characterized by its facultative anaerobic metabolism and mobility, enabled by the presence of flagella. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, and is typically found in host-associated habitats. Its cell arrangement can be observed in pairs and singles. FWSEC0128 is free-living and has a diverse range of hosts, including various animals such as Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, Bos taurus, and numerous others, as well as plants like Solanum lycopersicum and Brassica oleracea var. italica. This broad host range indicates its ecological versatility and potential interactions within different ecosystems. The strain is associated with numerous health effects, primarily in humans, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemorrhagic colitis. These pathogenic effects highlight its role as a significant human pathogen, capable of causing a wide array of diseases, ranging from mild diarrhea to severe systemic infections like septicemia and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Given its ability to thrive in various hosts and its association with serious health conditions, E. coli strain FWSEC0128 serves as an important reminder of the complexities of host-pathogen interactions. Its presence in both human and animal hosts underscores the need for ongoing surveillance and research to manage and mitigate the risks associated with this strain in clinical and environmental settings.