Escherichia coli strain KCJK8504

Escherichia coli strain KCJK8504 is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that exhibits a facultative anaerobic oxygen requirement and is capable of mobility due to the presence of flagella. This strain is mesophilic, with an optimal growth temperature of 37°C. It is characterized by its arrangement in pairs and singles, and it possesses a single replicon and two membranes. KCJK8504 is predominantly host-associated, with a diverse range of potential hosts including humans (Homo sapiens), various livestock (such as Bos taurus and Sus scrofa), avian species (like Gallus gallus and Meleagris gallopavo), as well as numerous other vertebrates and invertebrates. This broad host range highlights its adaptability and ecological versatility. The strain is known for its significant health impacts, particularly in humans, where it is associated with various clinical conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), gastrointestinal infections, neonatal meningitis, and more severe manifestations like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and septicemia. These pathogenic effects underscore its relevance in both clinical and environmental microbiology. In ecological terms, KCJK8504's ability to thrive in diverse environments and its pathogenic potential in multiple hosts emphasize the importance of monitoring E. coli strains in public health and food safety contexts. Its presence in both faunal and agricultural habitats suggests a complex interplay between microbial communities and their hosts, which can influence disease dynamics and transmission pathways.