Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0351

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0351 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic lifestyle, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. This strain is motile and possesses flagella, enabling movement. It is classified as mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. FWSEC0351 is host-associated, demonstrating a free-living biotic relationship. It has a diverse range of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), various domestic animals such as Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), and Sus scrofa (pigs), as well as other vertebrates and invertebrates. This extensive host range suggests a significant ecological adaptability, allowing FWSEC0351 to inhabit multiple niches in both wild and domesticated environments. In terms of health implications, FWSEC0351 is associated with a variety of serious health issues in humans and other hosts, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, neonatal meningitis, and conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The strain's pathogenicity in humans underscores its role as a potential threat to public health, as it can lead to severe outcomes like renal failure and even death in vulnerable populations. The presence of FWSEC0351 in such a wide range of hosts, coupled with its pathogenic potential, highlights the ecological significance of this strain in the context of zoonotic diseases and foodborne infections. Understanding its behavior and interactions within different host species is crucial for managing its impact on health and for developing effective interventions to mitigate its pathogenic effects.