Enterococcus faecalis strain CECT 7121

Enterococcus faecalis strain CECT 7121 is a Gram-positive, non-motile cocci that exhibits facultative anaerobic metabolism, functioning as a chemoorganotroph. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C, making it well-suited to thrive in human body temperatures. It has a single membrane and one replicon, indicating its relatively simple genetic structure. This strain is free-living and has a diverse range of potential hosts, including Homo sapiens, various livestock (e.g., Gallus gallus, Bos, Sus scrofa), aquatic species (e.g., Lutjanus russellii, Danio rerio), and domestic animals (e.g., Canis lupus familiaris, Felis catus). Due to its pathogenicity in humans, E. faecalis strain CECT 7121 is associated with a variety of health effects, including bacteremia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), endocarditis, meningitis, and nosocomial infections. It can cause infections in multiple body parts, such as the urinary tract, intra-abdominal regions, surgical sites, and the oral cavity, leading to significant clinical implications. The presence of this strain in diverse environments and its ability to infect a wide range of hosts underscores its ecological versatility. The pathogenic potential of E. faecalis highlights its role as an opportunistic pathogen in human health, capable of causing severe infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Understanding the characteristics and behaviors of strains like CECT 7121 is crucial for developing strategies to manage their associated health risks.