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Updated: May 7, 2026
09:44
Characterization of a Pathogenic Escherichia coli Strain Derived from Oreochromis spp. Farms Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
Published on: December 23, 2022
Recent advances in understanding enteric pathogenic Escherichia coli.
Matthew A Croxen1, Robyn J Law, Roland Scholz
1Michael Smith Laboratories, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Clinical Microbiology Reviews
|October 5, 2013
Summary
Pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) causes significant diarrheal and extraintestinal diseases globally. This review details recent advancements in understanding these dangerous E. coli pathotypes and their public health impact.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Escherichia coli (E. coli) exists as a common gut bacterium but also harbors pathogenic variants (pathotypes).
- These pathogenic E. coli strains are responsible for considerable global morbidity and mortality, affecting humans, animals, food, and the environment.
- Understanding the diverse mechanisms and public health implications of pathogenic E. coli is crucial due to their prevalence and potential for severe disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of recent scientific progress in understanding intestinal pathogenic E. coli.
- To highlight the commonalities and variations in disease presentation, onset, and complications among different pathotypes.
- To emphasize the public health significance of pathogenic E. coli, including transmission routes and surveillance challenges.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes recent research findings on pathogenic E. coli.
- It examines studies focusing on E. coli pathotypes affecting the intestinal mucosa.
- The analysis includes data on disease mechanisms, epidemiology, and public health surveillance.
Main Results:
- Pathogenic E. coli pathotypes share common colonization strategies but exhibit significant differences in disease course and complications.
- Outbreaks of pathogenic E. coli occur worldwide, posing a serious threat due to low infectious doses and transmission via food and water.
- Surveillance programs are vital but often underdeveloped in developing nations, underscoring a gap in global health security.
Conclusions:
- Pathogenic E. coli remains a significant global health challenge with a high potential for causing disease.
- Continued research into E. coli pathotypes is essential for developing effective prevention and control strategies.
- Addressing surveillance gaps, particularly in developing countries, is critical for mitigating the impact of pathogenic E. coli outbreaks.
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