Beyond the theory: From holobiont concept to microbiome engineering

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Ecology
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Holobiont research is advancing from descriptive studies to manipulative approaches.
• The persistence of holobiont changes following manipulation is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if external evolutionary pressure can induce beneficial, persistent changes in host-associated microbial communities.
• To assess the potential for microbiome engineering as a heritable ecosystem service.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual 'Burning Question' paper, posing a question rather than presenting empirical data.
• It reviews existing principles of holobiont dynamics and microbiome manipulation.

Main Results:

• The potential for microbiome engineering to create persistent, beneficial changes is explored.
• The feasibility of this approach as a new ecosystem service is discussed.

Conclusions:

• Microbiome engineering, guided by evolutionary principles, may offer a novel and persistent ecosystem service.
• This concept has broad implications for symbiosis, conservation, and biotechnology.