ESCHERICHIA COLI Meaning and
Definition
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Escherichia coli, commonly referred to as E. coli, is a gram-negative bacterium that is naturally found in the intestines of humans and animals. It belongs to the family Enterobacteriaceae and the genus Escherichia. E. coli is a facultative anaerobe, meaning it is capable of surviving in both aerobic (oxygen-rich) and anaerobic (oxygen-depleted) environments.
Despite its normal presence in the intestinal flora, certain strains of E. coli can cause various diseases in humans, ranging from mild to severe. These pathogenic strains are typically transmitted through contaminated water or food, particularly under unsanitary conditions. Some strains are responsible for gastrointestinal infections, resulting in symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. In rare cases, E. coli infections can lead to more severe conditions, including bloody diarrhea, kidney failure, and even death.
Escherichia coli is a well-studied bacterium, and its genetic and biochemical properties have been extensively researched. Its use as a model organism in scientific investigation has been crucial in understanding fundamental concepts of genetics, molecular biology, and microbiology. Additionally, E. coli is widely used in biotechnology and industrial applications, serving as a host organism for the production of various proteins, enzymes, and therapeutic substances.
Overall, Escherichia coli is a versatile bacterium that plays a significant role in both human health and scientific research. While certain strains can cause infections and pose health risks, its distinct attributes also make it a valuable tool in medical and biotechnological advancements.
Common Misspellings for ESCHERICHIA COLI
- wscherichia coli
- sscherichia coli
- dscherichia coli
- rscherichia coli
- 4scherichia coli
- 3scherichia coli
- eacherichia coli
- ezcherichia coli
- excherichia coli
- edcherichia coli
- eecherichia coli
- ewcherichia coli
- esxherichia coli
- esvherichia coli
- esfherichia coli
- esdherichia coli
- escgerichia coli
- escberichia coli
- escnerichia coli
Etymology of ESCHERICHIA COLI
The word "Escherichia" is derived from the name of German pediatrician and bacteriologist Theodor Escherich, who discovered and studied the bacteria. The term "coli" refers to the bacteria's habitat in the colon (large intestine) of humans and other animals. Thus, the word "Escherichia coli" combines the name of the discoverer with a description of its natural habitat.
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