Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0267

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0267 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic metabolism. It is capable of existing in pairs or singles and possesses flagella, which enable its mobility. This strain thrives optimally at a temperature of 37°C and falls within the mesophilic temperature range. FWSEC0267 is associated with a variety of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), and numerous others across various taxa such as mammals, birds, and even certain plants like Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli). This diverse host range highlights its adaptability to different biological environments, including free-living contexts. The strain is known for its pathogenicity in humans, being linked to a range of health effects, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and neonatal meningitis. These health impacts underscore its significance in clinical microbiology and public health. Ecologically, the presence of FWSEC0267 in various hosts suggests a complex interplay between the bacterium and its environments, which can lead to both commensal and pathogenic relationships. This duality emphasizes the importance of understanding such strains in the context of zoonotic diseases and their potential impacts on human health, particularly through foodborne transmission and infections stemming from animal reservoirs.