Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0350

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0350 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium characterized by its facultative anaerobic metabolism and motility, facilitated by the presence of flagella. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. It can be found in various habitats, particularly associated with hosts, indicating its versatile role in different biological contexts. FWSEC0350 exhibits a biotic relationship as a free-living organism, capable of colonizing a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), and various other mammals, birds, and even plants like Solanum lycopersicum (tomatoes) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli). This broad host range underlines its ecological adaptability and potential for interactions within different environments. The strain is associated with numerous health effects, primarily in humans, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and more severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). These health implications highlight the strain's pathogenicity and its relevance in clinical settings. Ecologically, the ability of E. coli FWSEC0350 to inhabit a variety of hosts and its association with significant health issues underscore its role in both environmental and clinical microbiology. Understanding its characteristics can provide insights into microbial dynamics in host-associated environments and inform strategies for managing infections caused by this strain.