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Microbial Ecology and Evolution Are Essential for Understanding Pandemics.

Megan E Frederickson1, Aspen T Reese2

  • 1Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.

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Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of microbial ecology and evolution. However, research in this area has not seen the same pivot as other biological fields, suggesting a need for increased focus and funding.

Keywords:
COVID-19microbial ecologymicrobial evolutionmicrobiome

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Area of Science:

  • Microbial ecology and evolution
  • Virology
  • Pandemic research

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, underscores the critical role of understanding microbial population dynamics, dispersal, and evolution.
  • Ecological and evolutionary principles are fundamental to managing viral pandemics.
  • The rapid shift in biological research focus towards COVID-19 necessitates an examination of its impact on various sub-disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the impact of the COVID-19 research pivot on the field of microbial ecology and evolution.
  • To compare the extent of this pivot across different biological disciplines.
  • To advocate for renewed attention and investment in microbial ecology and evolution.

Main Methods:

  • Data compilation from preprint servers (bioRxiv, medRxiv) and NIH Research Project grant abstracts.
  • Analysis of research trends and topic distribution before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Qualitative assessment of the 'pivot' to COVID-19 research across biological fields.

Main Results:

  • The shift towards COVID-19 research appears less pronounced in ecology and evolutionary biology compared to other biological disciplines.
  • Despite the pandemic's relevance, microbial ecology and evolution research did not experience a proportional increase in focus.
  • The study visualizes the differential impact of the pandemic on research priorities.

Conclusions:

  • Microbial ecology and evolution are crucial for understanding and managing infectious diseases like COVID-19.
  • There is a need to increase attention and funding for research into the ecology and evolution of microbes, including pathogens and non-pathogenic organisms.
  • Strengthening the microbial ecology and evolution research base is vital for future pandemic preparedness.