Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0438

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0438 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits mobility due to the presence of 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, making it well-suited for survival within warm-blooded hosts. FWSEC0438 is host-associated and demonstrates a free-living biotic relationship. It has a wide range of hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), Bos taurus (cattle), various mammals, and even some plants such as Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Brassica oleracea var. italica (broccoli). This extensive host range suggests a significant ecological adaptability, allowing the strain to inhabit diverse environments. The strain is associated with numerous health effects, particularly in humans, where it is linked to urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and more severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The pathogenicity of FWSEC0438 in humans raises concerns about its role in foodborne illnesses and other infections. This bacterium's ability to thrive in various hosts and environments, coupled with its pathogenic potential, underscores its ecological significance. Understanding the interactions between E. coli FWSEC0438 and its diverse hosts can provide insights into disease prevention and control strategies, particularly in the context of public health and food safety.