Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0439

Escherichia coli strain FWSEC0439 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits mobility, facilitated by the presence of flagella. This strain is classified as a facultative anaerobe, allowing it to thrive in both aerobic and anaerobic environments. It typically resides in host-associated habitats, with a broad range of hosts including Homo sapiens, various livestock such as Bos taurus and Sus scrofa, as well as numerous other vertebrate and invertebrate species. FWSEC0439 has a mesophilic growth range, with an optimal temperature of 37°C. It possesses a single replicon and a double membrane structure, consistent with its classification in the Enterobacteriaceae family. Its biotic relationship is characterized as free-living, indicating its ability to survive independently of a host under certain conditions. This strain is notably pathogenic to humans, associated with a variety of health issues including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and neonatal meningitis. The diverse range of diseases it can cause underscores its significant public health impact. The ecological insight from studying E. coli strain FWSEC0439 is its adaptability and versatility in different environments, which allows it to infect a wide array of hosts and cause various diseases. This adaptability may contribute to its persistence in both natural and clinical settings, highlighting the importance of monitoring and understanding such pathogenic strains in the context of health and disease management.