Escherichia coli strain EC_11

Escherichia coli strain EC_11 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is a facultative anaerobe, thriving optimally at 37°C within a mesophilic temperature range. This strain exhibits mobility, attributed to the presence of flagella, and typically exists in pairs or singles. It is free-living but has a significant host-associated habitat, being found in various organisms including Homo sapiens, Gallus gallus, and Bos taurus, among others, indicating a broad ecological niche. EC_11 is known for its pathogenicity in humans, linked to a variety of health issues. The strain is notably associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as neonatal meningitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Other health effects include peritonitis, diarrhea, and complications that may lead to renal failure or even abortion. The extensive list of diseases underscores the strain's potential impact on human health and highlights its role as a significant public health concern. Given its diverse range of hosts and the extensive array of health effects, E. coli strain EC_11 serves as a crucial example of how environmental and biological interactions can influence pathogenicity. Its presence in both human and animal hosts emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the importance of monitoring such strains in the context of public health and disease prevention.