Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0272

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0272 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is facultatively anaerobic and exhibits mobility due to the presence of flagella. It is capable of thriving in host-associated habitats, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, placing it in the mesophilic temperature range. This strain has a single replicon and is characterized by a double membrane structure. FWSEC0272 has a diverse range of hosts, including various species within the animal kingdom such as Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, Bos taurus, and several others, as well as some plant species like Solanum lycopersicum and Brassica oleracea var. italica. This wide host range indicates a versatile ecological niche and highlights its potential for cross-species transmission. The strain is associated with numerous health effects, particularly in humans, where it can lead to urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and neonatal meningitis. The pathogenicity of FWSEC0272 underscores its significance as a public health concern, as it can cause a variety of serious infections ranging from diarrhea to systemic diseases. The diverse interactions with both animal and plant hosts suggest that E. coli strain FWSEC0272 plays a complex role in microbial ecosystems and could contribute to both health and disease dynamics within these environments. Understanding its pathogenicity and ecological relationships is crucial for managing its impact on human and animal health.