Complete neucleotide sequencing of neonatal meningitis causing E.coli RS218. Escherichia coli RS218

Neonatal meningitis (NM) and sepsis is the third most common disease in neonates that accounts for approximately 393,000 deaths worldwide. Escherichia coli has been identified as the most predominant Gram-negative pathogen associated with neonatal meningitis.Despite advanced antimicrobial therapy and supportive care, mortality and morbidity rates of NM due to neonatal meningitis-associated E. coli (NMEC) continue to be as high as 30-50%.The exact mechanism and the virulence factors associated with bacterial transverse of mucosal barrier and access to the intravascular space are poorly understood.Objectives of the current project is to whole genome sequencing of prototype NMEC strain E. coli RS218 to identify novel virulent traits that involve in NMEC pathogenesis