Escherichia coli strain SIEC018 19_NODE_118

Escherichia coli strain SIEC018 19_NODE_118 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic lifestyle, thriving optimally at 37°C within a mesophilic temperature range. It is characterized by its ability to move, facilitated by the presence of flagella, and typically exists in pairs or as single cells. The strain possesses a single replicon and is enveloped by two membranes, a common trait among Gram-negative bacteria. This strain is notably associated with a wide range of hosts, including Homo sapiens, various livestock (such as Bos taurus and Gallus gallus), and several other species across the animal kingdom, including mammals, birds, and even some invertebrates. This broad host range suggests that E. coli SIEC018 has adapted to diverse biological environments, indicating its ecological versatility. E. coli SIEC018 is recognized for its pathogenic potential in humans, being linked to numerous health complications, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and severe conditions such as hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The strain poses risks not only through foodborne infections but also through infections that can lead to complications such as neonatal meningitis and peritonitis. The ecological insight drawn from the traits of E. coli SIEC018 emphasizes its role as a free-living organism that can thrive in various host-associated environments, reinforcing the importance of monitoring such pathogens in both clinical and agricultural settings to prevent transmission and outbreaks.