Escherichia coli strain NCTC10418

Escherichia coli strain NCTC10418 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is facultatively anaerobic and can be found in both single and paired arrangements. This strain is part of a diverse group of organisms that inhabit various hosts, including Homo sapiens (humans), Gallus gallus (chickens), and Bos taurus (cattle), among others. E. coli NCTC10418 is motile, possessing flagella that enable its movement, and it thrives optimally at a temperature of 37°C, categorizing it as mesophilic. The strain has considerable pathogenic potential in humans, being implicated in a range of health issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, and neonatal meningitis. It is associated with severe conditions including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to renal failure, as well as various forms of colitis and septicemia. The bacterium's ability to cause foodborne infections highlights its significance in public health, particularly in relation to food safety. E. coli NCTC10418 exists as a free-living organism, but its interactions with multiple hosts suggest a complex ecological role. Given its pathogenicity, the strain not only impacts human health but also affects livestock and other animals, indicating a potential for zoonotic transmission. The presence of E. coli in various environments, including agricultural settings, underscores the importance of monitoring its strains to mitigate the risks of infections associated with food and water sources.