Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0298

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0298 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits mobility and possesses flagella. It is classified as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. The strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, typical for many pathogenic E. coli strains. FWSEC0298 is associated with a wide range of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), various mammals including Bos taurus (cattle), Sus scrofa (pigs), and others, as well as certain plant species like Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli). This diverse host range highlights its adaptability and ecological significance. The strain is known to be free-living and is associated with numerous health effects in humans, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and other serious conditions such as septicemia and neonatal meningitis. These pathogenic effects underscore the strain's potential impact on public health, particularly in foodborne infections and clinical settings. Given the strain's ability to infect both humans and various animal species, it is evident that FWSEC0298 plays a significant role in the microbiome of its hosts and can contribute to disease transmission across species. Its wide-ranging pathogenic effects remind us of the importance of monitoring E. coli strains in both clinical and agricultural contexts to mitigate health risks associated with infections.