Microbiome ethics, guiding principles for microbiome research, use and knowledge management.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Bioethics
• Symbiosis

Background:

• The biological impact of microbiomes on hosts and environments stems from co-evolutionary mutualistic symbiosis.
• Exponential growth in microbiome research necessitates a holistic ethical perspective for planetary health.
• Ethical considerations for microbiome research, innovation, and use remain underexplored.

Discussion:

• Ethical analysis structured around the four principles: Do Good, Don't Harm, Respect, Act Justly.
• Operationalizing ethical issues in microbiome science through a clear, actionable framework.
• Addressing the systemic role, interactions, and impact of microbiomes within their ecological and host contexts.

Key Insights:

• A comprehensive ethical framework is crucial for advancing microbiome science responsibly.
• Eleven key recommendations are proposed, including treating gut microbiome status as common global heritage.
• Ensuring ethical conduct in microbiome research, innovation, and application is paramount.

Outlook:

• Future microbiome research and applications must integrate ethical considerations from the outset.
• Establishing international norms for microbiome governance and equitable benefit sharing.
• Promoting a proactive ethical dialogue to guide the responsible development of microbiome-based solutions.