List of strains of Escherichia coli

Escherichia coli, commonly abbreviated as E. coli, is a bacterium that is typically found in the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms. Most strains of E. coli are harmless and are part of the normal flora of the gut, and can be beneficial to their hosts by producing vitamin K2 and preventing the establishment of pathogenic bacteria within the intestine. However, some strains can cause serious food poisoning in humans and are occasionally responsible for product recalls due to food contamination. This article provides a list of notable strains of E. coli, highlighting their characteristics, the diseases they cause, and their significance in both medical and scientific research.

List of Strains of Escherichia coli

O157

H7

One of the most well-known pathogenic strains, E. coli O157:H7 is associated with foodborne illness outbreaks. It produces a powerful toxin known as Shiga toxin, which can cause severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. In some cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can result in kidney failure.

K-12

A non-pathogenic strain that is widely used in biotechnology and genetics research. E. coli K-12 is a model organism and has been extensively studied, making it one of the most well-understood living organisms. It is used for recombinant DNA technology and has been instrumental in the development of molecular biology.

O104

H4

This strain was responsible for a large outbreak of foodborne illness in Europe in 2011, primarily Germany. It is known for causing hemolytic uremic syndrome and has a unique combination of virulence factors that make it highly pathogenic.

CFT073

A uropathogenic strain of E. coli that is often associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs). It has been extensively studied to understand the pathogenesis of UTIs and the mechanisms by which bacteria can invade and persist in the urinary tract.

EDL933

A strain of E. coli O157:H7 that was isolated from ground beef and has been used as a reference strain in the study of foodborne pathogens. It produces Shiga toxin and has been a key strain in understanding the genetics and biochemistry of Shiga toxin production.

MG1655

Another derivative of the K-12 strain, MG1655 is a laboratory strain that has been used as a reference in genetic studies. Its complete genome has been sequenced, providing valuable information for comparative genomics and molecular biology research.

Nissle 1917

Known for its probiotic properties, E. coli Nissle 1917 is used in the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases. It is one of the few examples of a beneficial E. coli strain that is commercially available as a probiotic supplement.

H10407

A strain known for causing enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) infections, which are a major cause of diarrhea in children in developing countries and travelers' diarrhea. It produces heat-labile and heat-stable enterotoxins that stimulate fluid secretion and cause watery diarrhea.

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